On 21 April, in a meeting in Moscow between Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Government of National Unity (GNU) acting Minister of Foreign Affairs Taher al-Baour, Lavrov emphasized Russias’s support for Libya’s national unity but stressed that Russia will continue to engage with leaders across Libya. He mentioned recent talks with PM Abdul Hameed Dabaiba at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum and meetings with senior Benghazi representatives. The Russian minister confirmed plans to reopen Russia’s consulate in Benghazi while keeping the embassy in Tripoli, noting the consulate had been inactive since 1993.
Lavrov added that Russia is preparing to host a Libyan delegation at the upcoming Russia–Africa summit in Moscow, underscoring efforts to deepen bilateral ties. Lavrov and al-Baour also talked about the revival of the Russian-Libyan Intergovernmental Commission (IGC) to facilitate the return of Russian companies, with particular interest in sectors such as reconstruction, hydrocarbon, transport, and education. Moreover, the two ministers discussed regional issues in the MENA region, including the war in Iran.
Al‑Baour said in the subsequent press conference that discussions focused on activating previous agreements and creating conditions for Russian firms to re‑enter the Libyan market, with both sides agreeing to develop practical mechanisms for implementing joint projects. Among others, Lavrov praised Libya’s ‘balanced and neutral position’ on the Ukraine conflict at the United Nations.
Thereafter, a Libyan senior delegation headed by al-Baour and GNU Minister of Transportation Muhammed al-Shahoubi met with a Russian delegation led by Minister of Energy Sergey Tsivilyov to resume the work of the joint commission between Russia and Libya, after a break of more than 15 years.
The two sides discussed expanding cooperation across key strategic sectors, especially energy, as well as preparations for the return of Russian companies to Libya and the resumption of direct flights. Moreover, concrete steps to increase the trade volume and strengthen people‑to‑people ties were elaborated. The talks also covered infrastructure development, technical cooperation, and training and capacity‑building programs in various areas. It was agreed to maintain coordination through the IGC, signaling a move toward a renewed long‑term partnership grounded in mutual interests and economic integration. The next meeting will be held in Tripoli.