Libya to Host Second Asian-African Parliamentary Conference in Benghazi

A Landmark Moment for Libya's International Return

Libya is set to host the Second General Conference of the Asian-African Parliamentary Council in Benghazi on June 15–16, marking a significant milestone in the country's active re-engagement with regional and international affairs. Member of the House of Representatives and the African Parliament Yousef al-Fakhri announced the event on Thursday, describing it as an important step that highlights Libya's growing stature across both continents. The conference will be held under the direct patronage of the House of Representatives.

The Asian-African Parliamentary Council serves as a vital platform for intercontinental dialogue, bringing together lawmakers from dozens of nations. For Libya, securing the hosting rights represents a vote of confidence from the international parliamentary community and recognition of the country's strategic position bridging North Africa and the Arab world.

What the Council Represents

The Council brings together member states from across Asia and Africa to strengthen partnership, coordinate on shared interests, and reinforce political and economic cooperation. According to al-Fakhri, the council supports efforts to consult on mutual issues affecting both continents. Its agenda covers trade facilitation, security cooperation, cultural exchange, and joint responses to transnational challenges such as climate change, migration, and food security.

Developing these relations among member states serves common interests and creates wider prospects for future joint cooperation. The council also provides a forum for parliamentarians to share legislative best practices and harmonize positions before international bodies like the United Nations and the African Union.

Key Facts

  • Event: Second General Conference of the Asian-African Parliamentary Council
  • Location: Benghazi, Libya
  • Dates: June 15–16, 2026
  • Patronage: House of Representatives of Libya
  • Scope: Parliamentary delegations from multiple Asian and African nations
  • Significance: First major international parliamentary event hosted by Libya in recent years

Al-Fakhri: Selection Reflects Libya's Continental Role

"Holding the conference in Benghazi underscores Libya's growing stature in both Africa and Asia," al-Fakhri stated. He emphasized that Libya is playing an increasing role as an active partner in addressing shared issues across both continents. The MP noted that Libya's unique geographic position — with a Mediterranean coastline stretching over 1,700 kilometers and deep ties to sub-Saharan Africa — makes it a natural meeting point for Asian and African nations.

Al-Fakhri expressed confidence that the conference outcomes will strengthen political and economic ties among participating nations and thanked the House of Representatives for organizing the event. He added that the conference will create wider prospects for future cooperation in trade, investment, and parliamentary diplomacy, reflecting the Libyan people's aspirations for stability and renewed international partnerships.

Why This Matters for Libya

Libya's selection signals its central role in its regional and continental surroundings. For a country that has faced years of instability and isolation, hosting a multilateral parliamentary conference represents a meaningful step toward diplomatic normalization. The event positions Benghazi as a hub for intercontinental dialogue and reinforces Libya's identity as a bridge between Africa and Asia.

It also sends a clear message to the international community that Libya is open for cooperation and ready to contribute to shared continental priorities. The conference could open doors for new bilateral agreements, trade partnerships, and development programs that directly benefit Libyan citizens. Hosting such a high-profile event also showcases Benghazi's recovery and resilience.

Looking Ahead

As delegates from across Asia and Africa prepare to gather in Benghazi, all eyes will be on the outcomes of this landmark conference. The event is expected to produce frameworks for deeper political consultation and economic collaboration, including joint infrastructure projects and coordinated responses to regional security challenges.

For Libya, this represents not just a diplomatic achievement but a statement of intent — a nation reclaiming its place at the table of international affairs. As al-Fakhri emphasized, this event is just the beginning of Libya's active return to the international stage, with more initiatives expected in the coming months.

— LibyaPress / Politics Desk