In a move towards strengthening diplomatic relations, Morocco announced the reopening of its consulates in the Libyan capital, Tripoli, and in Benghazi, following an eight-year closure due to deteriorating security conditions in Libya.
In a statement from the Moroccan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Morocco disclosed its decision to appoint 23 new consuls general in several countries, including Libya. The ministry announced the reopening of the two consulates in Tripoli and Benghazi, but did not provide any details regarding the embassy.
The Moroccan consulates and embassy in Libya were previously closed following an attack on the latter in 2015. Since then, the general consulate in Tunisia has been handling affairs related to the Moroccan community in Libya.
In the same context, the Moroccan news site “Hespress” suggested that this move would facilitate consular services for Moroccans residing in Libya. It added that the hardships endured by Moroccans in Libya are “about to end,” as obtaining consular services formerly required travel to Tunisia, resulting in additional expenses and time.
The news site also mentioned that “Morocco and Libya are working towards finding a formula for visa abolition, to facilitate easy movement for the citizens of both countries.”