Libyan Minister of State for Communication and Political Affairs, Walid Ellafi, met with Syria’s new leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, in Damascus on Saturday to discuss strengthening bilateral ties in areas such as energy, migration, and diplomacy.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Ellafi expressed Libya’s support for Syria’s transitional government. “We expressed our full support for the Syrian authorities in the success of this important transitional phase,” he said.
The discussions covered various topics, including cooperation on security, military matters, and illegal migration. Ellafi highlighted the challenges posed by Syrians fleeing civil war since 2011, many of whom have travelled to Libya in search of work or a route across the Mediterranean to Europe.
The two sides also emphasised enhancing diplomatic representation. “Today, the charge d’affaires attended the meeting with me, and we are seeking to appoint a permanent ambassador,” Ellafi added.
The meeting also delved into energy and trade partnerships, underscoring Libya’s interest in building stronger economic ties with Syria.
Libya’s government remains divided, with a UN-recognised administration based in Tripoli and a rival faction in the east led by military strongman Khalifa Haftar. Despite this division, the Tripoli government appears keen to engage with Sharaa’s administration as it consolidates power in Damascus.
In a related development, Syrian state media published images of Sharaa meeting Bahrain’s strategic security bureau chief, Sheikh Ahmed bin Abdulaziz Al-Khalifa, on Saturday.
According to Bahrain’s government, the visit was part of the kingdom’s commitment to fostering dialogue and supporting Syria’s stability. Discussions included regional security, economic recovery, and humanitarian efforts, aligning with Bahrain’s role as chair of the current Arab Summit.
Since Sharaa’s government toppled Bashar al-Assad on December 8, numerous envoys from the Middle East and beyond have sought to establish contact with the new administration.
On December 14, top diplomats from eight Arab countries, including Bahrain, called for a peaceful transition in Syria with support from the United Nations and the Arab League. Bahrain’s King Hamad has also pledged continued consultations and coordination with Syria, signaling regional efforts to support Sharaa’s transitional government.
