On January 18, 2025, Libya and the United States took significant steps to enhance their bilateral relations through both military and cultural initiatives. Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs Taher Al-Baour met with US Chargé d'Affaires Jeremy Berndt to discuss recent political developments in Libya and to strengthen cooperation between the two nations. Al-Baour emphasized the Government of National Unity's commitment to a democratic state, while Berndt reaffirmed the US's dedication to promoting peace and stability in Libya [fddc4b77].
In a notable military agreement finalized on December 19, 2024, Libya's Ministry of Defence and the United States agreed to enhance the capabilities of the Libyan Air Force. This agreement included plans for joint training programs and strategic military initiatives for 2024, showcasing a robust commitment to military cooperation [3dbfe12c].
On the same day as the diplomatic meeting, the Libyan Antiquities Authority and the US Embassy signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at protecting Libyan cultural heritage and combating antiquities smuggling. This MoU seeks to enhance the capabilities of Libyan institutions and facilitate the exchange of expertise. Notably, Libya has successfully recovered over 14 smuggled antiquities from the US as a result of this partnership, highlighting the tangible benefits of international cooperation in cultural preservation [952955d5].
In a further commitment to fostering stability, the United States completed a three-day conflict resolution training program for local leaders in Murzuq, Libya, on January 21, 2025. Organized by USAID in partnership with the American Bar Association, the training emphasized consensus-building practices among key members of the municipality’s steering council and local stakeholders. Christopher LaFarge, USAID's representative in Libya, stated that the initiative was in response to Murzuq’s request for assistance. The U.S. Embassy reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Libyan communities in achieving peace and development [2d118757].
These developments reflect Libya's multifaceted approach to strengthening its governance and enhancing its defense and cultural capabilities. The US Embassy characterized the military discussions as productive and emphasized the importance of collaborative defense initiatives, while the cultural agreement underscores a commitment to protecting Libya's rich heritage [3dbfe12c][952955d5]. As Libya navigates its complex political landscape, these initiatives signal a potential shift towards greater international cooperation in both defense and cultural matters [75617172].