On September 21, 2026, Italian Consul Filippo Colombo visited the Libyan International University in Benghazi, accompanied by representatives from the Libyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. The visit, which was overseen by Foreign Minister Abdul Hadi Al-Hwij, aimed to strengthen cultural and scientific diplomacy between Libya and Italy. During the visit, Colombo met with university leaders and department heads to discuss potential partnerships.

The meeting focused on enhancing academic and research cooperation between the university and Italian educational institutions. Topics included student exchange programs, Italian-funded scholarships, and joint research initiatives. The Italian Consul and university officials also discussed the development of Italian language instruction at the university. According to the Libyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the visit was part of a broader effort to support Libyan institutions and promote international cooperation.

The Libyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized its commitment to facilitating initiatives that foster partnerships between Libyan and international academic institutions. The ministry's representative praised the university's academic and research capabilities, highlighting its potential for collaboration with Italian institutions. The visit included a tour of the university's facilities, providing Colombo with an overview of its resources and infrastructure.

Italian Consul Filippo Colombo expressed his admiration for the university's academic and research standards, emphasizing Italy's interest in expanding scientific cooperation with Libyan institutions. The visit concluded with a discussion on potential areas of collaboration, including joint research projects and academic exchanges. The Libyan International University has been working to strengthen its international partnerships, and the visit by Colombo is seen as a significant step in this direction.

The Libyan International University has a strong focus on research and academic development, with various departments and research centers. The university's leadership expressed its enthusiasm for collaborating with Italian institutions, citing potential benefits for students and researchers. The visit by Colombo and the accompanying delegation marked a significant milestone in the development of Libya-Italy academic relations.

Libya and Italy have been working to strengthen bilateral relations in recent years, with a focus on economic, cultural, and scientific cooperation. The visit by Colombo to the Libyan International University is part of this broader effort, demonstrating the commitment of both countries to enhancing their partnership. The Libyan government has emphasized its support for international cooperation, particularly in the fields of education and research.

The visit by Italian Consul Filippo Colombo to the Libyan International University has highlighted the potential for cooperation between Libyan and Italian academic institutions. Key areas of collaboration include student exchanges, joint research projects, and the development of Italian language instruction. The visit has paved the way for future partnerships, with both sides expressing their enthusiasm for strengthening academic ties.

Key points

  • The Italian Consul's visit aimed to strengthen academic cooperation between Libya and Italy.
  • The visit included discussions on student exchange programs and joint research initiatives.
  • The Libyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized its support for international cooperation in education and research.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.