Libyan Foreign Minister Abdul Hadi Al-Hwij met with Roman Osin, director of the Russian House in Libya, and his delegation on October 11, 2026, to discuss procedures for opening the Russian House in Libya as a center for public diplomacy. The meeting focused on enhancing Libyan-Russian cooperation in cultural, scientific, and educational fields. Both parties reviewed administrative and legal steps required for the organization's operation and explored ways to expand communication and cooperation between Libyan and Russian institutions.
Al-Hwij emphasized that the opening of the Russian House is contingent upon fulfilling Libya's legal and regulatory requirements. He stressed the importance of respecting Islamic law, Libyan customs and traditions, and avoiding interference in Libya's internal political affairs. The minister also highlighted the need for a registered office and a Libyan national as a legal representative. Furthermore, activities and movements must be coordinated with relevant Libyan authorities.
The Libyan Foreign Ministry is willing to provide necessary facilitation within its legal and administrative competence. Al-Hwij expressed Libya's interest in developing bilateral relations and enhancing cooperation with Russia. He noted that Libya has proposed opening a Libyan House in Russia to expand cultural exchange and communication between institutions and societies in both countries.
Osin appreciated the meeting with Al-Hwij and expressed hope for completing procedures to obtain a permit to operate and start implementing cultural, scientific, and educational programs. The Russian House's activities will focus on promoting cultural and educational exchanges between Libya and Russia.
Discussions also touched on providing scholarships for Libyan students from the eastern region to study in Russia, which would enhance educational cooperation between the two countries. This initiative aims to support academic qualification and expand cooperation between educational institutions in Libya and Russia.
Al-Hwij reiterated Libya's commitment to its sovereignty and independence in decision-making. He emphasized that Libya's national interests are the primary reference for Libyan decisions and orientations. International relations should be based on mutual respect and shared interests.
The meeting is part of efforts to develop Libyan-Russian relations, enhance cultural, scientific, and educational cooperation, and open new avenues for communication between institutions and the two nations. Key points include:
Key points
- The opening of the Russian House in Libya is conditional on respecting Libyan sovereignty and laws.
- Libya and Russia aim to enhance cooperation in cultural, scientific, and educational fields.
- The two countries are exploring opportunities for educational exchanges, including scholarships for Libyan students in Russia.
