Benghazi: Turkey to open consulate and Turkish Airlines to resume flights

Turkey’s Ambassador to Libya, Güven Begeç, recently announced plans to open a Turkish consulate in Benghazi and restart Turkish Airlines flights to the city, signaling a strengthening of Turkish-Libyan relations, according to report in the Libyan Observer. The moves are reflective of Turkey’s developing involvement in Libya, which intensified after supporting Libya’s Government of National Accord (GNA) during the 2019–2020 conflict against forces loyal to Khalifa Haftar. Turkey provided military aid, training, and support to the GNA, helping to shift the balance of power and secure the GNA’s control over Tripoli.

In the recent meeting between Ambassador Begeç and Benghazi’s Municipal Council head Saqr Boujwari, discussions included restoring historic sites, infrastructure projects, and developing Benghazi’s workforce, demonstrating Turkey’s intent to support Libyan reconstruction efforts. Boujwari reportedly lauded partnership, especially in municipal and private sector collaboration, highlighting the mutual benefits of a Turkish presence in Benghazi. The Libyan Observer asserts that Turkey’s initiatives underscore its commitment to Libya’s stability and economic recovery.