A federal US judge issued a default judgment against Libyan commander Khalifa Haftar, finding him liable for war crimes against several Libyan families who have accused him of extrajudicial killings and torture. Judge Leonie Brinkema’s judgment, which follows a previous recommendation from a magistrate judge last month, paves the way for the families in three separate civil suits to seek monetary compensation. Following Brinkema’s decision, lawyers for Haftar confirmed that they would be withdrawing as the Libyan commander’s counsel, leaving him without a lawyer going forward. The next step in the legal case is a hearing where the judge will evaluate what kind of compensation package the families should receive. Read more from Middle East Eye.
Month: July 2022
Ambassador Norland’s Visit to Tripoli
US Special Envoy and Ambassador to Libya Richard Norland visited Tripoli on July 28 and engaged with Libyan counterparts on the importance of maintaining stability and security in light of recent clashes that killed 16 Libyans. The Ambassador highlighted the importance of finalizing consensus on the constitutional basis for presidential and parliamentary elections, as a vital step to establishing full legitimacy for the Libyan government. During the visit, Ambassador Norland met with Vice-President of the Presidential Council Abdallah al-Lafi, GNU Foreign Minister Najla al-Mangoush, and General Mohammed al-Haddad. The Ambassador also met with a small group of NGOs that are working to support HNEC and the electoral process. Read more from the US Embassy.
USLBA Meeting with Dr. Mahmoud Fataisi, Chairman of Libya’s NESDB
On July 28, 2022, the US- Libya Business Association hosted a meeting with Dr. Mahmoud Fataisi, Chairman of Libya’s National Economic and Social Development Board (NESDB). Dr. Fataisi provided an overview of the NESDB’s current programs and presented the organization’s vision for inclusive growth and development in Libya. Participants discussed strategies to improve Libya’s business climate and shared their experiences in Libya. The committee discussed ways to enhance commerce between the United States and Libya.
US Representatives Attend Turkish Meeting on Libya
Ambassador Richard Norland and Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Josh Harris represented the US at an international meeting hosted by the Turkish foreign ministry in Istanbul on July 21 to review recent developments in Libya. The US supports efforts to reopen Libyan oil and gas production and stands ready with international partners to support Libyan-led efforts to manage oil revenues in a transparent and accountable way so that all Libyans benefit from their nation’s oil wealth. The United States is closely following court proceedings regarding the NOC and encourages Libyan actors to allow judicial authorities to carry out their duties without interference. The NOC’s independence and apolitical status in recent years is a legacy that should be maintained to sustain Libya’s reputation in the international oil sector. Read more from the US Embassy on Twitter.
ConocoPhillips and Meridian International Host ConocoPhillips and Meridian International Host Libyan Oil and Gas Professionals
ConocoPhillips and Meridian International hosted a productive discussion on the future of Libya’s oil and gas industry with an esteemed group of Libyan Oil and Gas professionals. The event was held on the auspices of the State Department Near Eastern Affairs International Visitor Leadership Program, and the US-Libya Business Association is appreciative of the opportunity to participate.
The discussion centered around the current state of Libya’s oil and gas industry and the opportunities and challenges that exist. The participants shared their experiences and insights on the industry, providing a valuable perspective on the current situation in Libya and the potential for growth and development.
The event was an important opportunity for Libyan Oil and Gas professionals to engage with their international counterparts and exchange ideas on best practices and innovations in the industry. It also provided an opportunity for Conoco Phillips and Meridian International to demonstrate their commitment to supporting the growth and development of Libya’s oil and gas industry.