The Russian capital continues to coordinate with Libyan authorities to open a consulate general in Benghazi, according to Alexander Kinchak, director of the Middle East and North Africa Department at the Russian Foreign Ministry.
In statements to the agency “Novosti”, Kinchak explained that this step comes after the resumption of the work of the Russian embassy in Tripoli in 2023, noting that the upcoming opening of the consulate in Benghazi represents an advanced step in strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries.
The Russian official stressed the importance of completing the process of agreement with the Libyan side on the establishment of the new diplomatic mission in the east of the country, stressing the need to focus on practical aspects such as logistics and security.
Kinchak noted Russia’s commitment to strengthening relations with Libya on the basis of strategic partnership in various fields, including political, economic, military, and cultural affairs, commenting on the challenges facing the work of diplomatic missions in Libya due to the complex political situation.
He pointed out that Libya is still in a state of de facto dual power, as there is a “national unity” government headed by Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh, based in the west of the country, matched by a government led by Osama Hammad, formed by the House of Representatives in the east and supported by the Libyan National Army led by Khalifa Haftar.
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