A meeting was held in Benghazi on October 5, 2026, between Saeed Benkiran, the Consul General of Morocco, and Abdul Hadi Al-Hwij, the Libyan Foreign Minister. The discussions focused on facilitating residence procedures for Moroccan nationals in Libya and addressing difficulties related to visa applications. The two parties also explored ways to enhance academic cooperation between their countries.
The meeting addressed the issue of residence permits for Moroccan citizens in Libya, with a focus on easing procedures and possibly exempting some individuals from fines for late renewal. The Libyan Foreign Minister emphasized the importance of finding solutions to these problems, taking into account both legal and humanitarian aspects. This aims to alleviate the challenges faced by Moroccans in regularizing their residency status.
The discussions also touched on the process of obtaining visas for Libyan citizens traveling to Morocco. The Libyan Foreign Minister stressed the need to simplify procedures and reduce obstacles, which would facilitate travel and communication between the two nations. This aspect of cooperation is seen as crucial in strengthening bilateral relations.
Academic cooperation was another key topic in the meeting. The two officials explored the possibility of establishing partnerships and twinning programs between Libyan and Moroccan universities. This would involve exchanging expertise, academic programs, and fostering scientific collaboration between higher education institutions in both countries.
The meeting was attended by a delegation accompanying the Moroccan Consul General, as well as Libyan officials, including the Director of Ceremonial Affairs, Adel Al-Farsi, and the Director of Arab Affairs, Jamil Bououden. The Libyan Foreign Minister highlighted the historical and fraternal relations between Libya and Morocco, emphasizing the importance of further developing bilateral cooperation, particularly in consular and academic fields.
The two parties agreed on the need for continued coordination between relevant authorities and follow-up on the issues discussed. This aims to support cooperation and strengthen relations between Morocco and Libya. However, no specific decisions or timelines were announced regarding the implementation of new procedures for residence, visas, or academic partnerships.
The discussions reflect ongoing efforts to enhance cooperation between Morocco and Libya, addressing practical issues faced by citizens of both countries. The meeting's outcomes are expected to contribute to improved relations and facilitation of travel and academic exchanges.
Key points
- Morocco and Libya discuss visa facilitation and residence issues for Moroccan nationals in Libya.
- The two countries explore academic cooperation, including partnerships between universities.
- The meeting aims to strengthen bilateral relations and address challenges faced by citizens of both nations.
