Al-Baour: Libya Committed to Strengthening Partnership with Turkey on Democracy Day

Libya's acting foreign minister reaffirms strategic ties at Turkish Embassy reception marking the 10th anniversary of July 15 Democracy and National Unity Day

TRIPOLI — Libya's Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Taher Al-Baour, reiterated Libya's steadfast commitment to deepening bilateral ties with Turkey during a reception hosted by the Turkish Embassy in Tripoli on Wednesday evening.

The event, held at the Yunus Emre Turkish Cultural Center in the Libyan capital, commemorated the 10th anniversary of July 15 — Turkey's Democracy and National Unity Day — marking a decade since the pivotal events of 2016 when Turkish civilians took to the streets to defend democratic institutions.

Al-Baour's Speech: A Message of Friendship and Cooperation

Delivering a speech at the ceremony, Al-Baour conveyed warm greetings from the State of Libya to the government and people of the Republic of Turkey. He underscored the depth of the historic friendship and collaborative bonds uniting the two nations, emphasizing Libya's determination to continue strengthening the strategic partnership for mutual benefit.

"Libya is committed to advancing our partnership with Turkey across all fields," Al-Baour stated, according to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. The minister highlighted the importance of continued coordination and joint work to serve the common interests of both countries.

A Historic Occasion: Democracy and National Unity Day

Al-Baour praised the significance of Democracy and National Unity Day, describing it as a reflection of the Turkish people's unity, sovereignty, and patriotism. He expressed his wishes for Turkey's continued security, stability, and prosperity.

Every year on July 15, Turkey and its diplomatic missions worldwide commemorate Democracy and National Unity Day. The occasion marks the anniversary of the 2016 defeated coup attempt, when Turkish citizens across the country mobilized to protect their democratic institutions. The day is observed with official ceremonies, public events, and receptions hosted by Turkish embassies globally, attended by dignitaries and diplomats from allied nations.

Strengthening Libya-Turkey Relations

The reception comes amid a broader trajectory of strengthening ties between Libya and Turkey. In recent months, the two countries have intensified diplomatic engagement on multiple fronts, including economic cooperation, security coordination, and preparations for major international events.

Libya is set to host the fourth Africa-Turkey Partnership Summit, scheduled for later in 2026 — a major diplomatic undertaking that has driven frequent high-level consultations between Tripoli and Ankara. Al-Baour has held several meetings with Turkish officials, including Ambassador Guven Begiç, to coordinate logistics and political frameworks for the summit.

Economic and Security Dimensions

Relations between Libya and Turkey span several sectors. Under existing bilateral agreements, Turkish companies are active in Libya's construction and infrastructure sectors, while the two countries maintain security and military cooperation frameworks dating back to memoranda of understanding signed in 2019.

Turkish diplomatic engagement with Libya has focused on supporting the Government of National Unity's efforts toward stability, reconstruction, and political reconciliation. The partnership also extends to cultural exchange, with the Yunus Emre Institute — the Turkish cultural center hosting Wednesday's event — actively promoting Turkish language and cultural programs in Tripoli.

Regional Context

The reaffirmation of Libya-Turkey partnership comes at a time of shifting dynamics across the broader Mediterranean and North African region. Ankara has expanded its diplomatic and economic footprint in Africa in recent years, with Libya serving as a key gateway for Turkish engagement with the continent. The upcoming Africa-Turkey Partnership Summit, which Libya will host, represents a significant milestone in this strategy.

For Libya, the partnership with Turkey remains an important axis of its foreign policy, balancing relationships with regional and international stakeholders while the country continues its post-conflict recovery and political transition under the auspices of the Government of National Unity.

— Libya Press / Politics Desk