MOSCOW, June 27 (RIA Novosti) – Russia is interested in restoring close ties with Libya in trade and energy and expanding military and technical cooperation, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Friday.
“We are closely examining developing relations with Libya. We support the efforts taken by the Libyan authorities to stabilize the situation in the country and ensure national reconciliation,” Putin said during a diplomatic accreditation ceremony for 14 foreign ambassadors to Russia broadcast on Rossiya-24.
On Wednesday, Libyans chose 200 members of the new parliament, including 32 women, from 1,628 candidates. The Libyan people are hoping the General National Congress will put an end to violence and political chaos in the country.
The Russian Foreign Ministry earlier welcomed the Libyan authorities’ decision to hold parliamentary elections, saying the move could further promote the political process in the country.
Last month, the situation in Libya escalated sharply after so-called militants from General Khalifa Haftar’s rebel group attacked Islamists in Benghazi killing dozens.
Following the civil war and the overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi, the situation in Libya remains tense. A large number of armed tribal groups continue to operate in the country. In some areas, the equipment and combat capabilities of these units is significantly superior to that of the police.