Egypt reopens embassy in Tripoli, seeks closer energy ties
Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty called for progress on a proposed gas pipeline, oil refining projects and electricity connections with Libya.
Egypt has reopened its embassy in Tripoli after a closure dating to 2012, with Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty attending the opening ceremony and urging progress on energy projects linking the two countries.
Abdelatty said the focus should now turn to technical implementation. He highlighted a proposed pipeline carrying gas from Libya to Egypt, pointing to Egypt’s facilities for liquefying natural gas.
He also urged faster progress on a proposal for Egyptian refineries to process Libyan oil for re-export. Other priorities he identified included bringing Libya’s refineries back into operation and reconnecting the countries’ electricity systems.
The diplomatic mission shut amid the turmoil that followed the removal of longtime Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi. Libya remains split between rival governments. Egypt previously supported military commander Khalifa Haftar’s eastern administration, but is now repairing relations with Tripoli as it pursues stronger cooperation on energy.
