As you make your way through the Mediterranean coastal city of Benghazi, the remnants of devastation in residential buildings and infrastructure are a stark reminder of the years of conflict between the Islamic State’s regional affiliate and the Libyan National Army, led by Marshal Khalifa Haftar. Neighborhoods like Assabri, once a stronghold of terrorists, still bear the scars of war. However, instead of erasing the past, the authorities in Benghazi seem to have chosen to preserve these ruins as a poignant reminder of the tragedy that befell the North African nation.
This deliberate decision serves as a warning, a testament to the devastating consequences of extremism and instability. For a city looking to move forward, the presence of these ruins is a constant reminder of the importance of avoiding similar conflicts in the future. Benghazi, with its metropolitan area of over 1.5 million inhabitants, is a young and ambitious society eager to demonstrate that Libya’s future is one of peace and prosperity. The city is pressing ahead, driven by an unspoken pride among its administrators, business leaders, and armed forces, who are determined to rebuild and develop their nation without waiting for external assistance.
The city’s transformation is evident in its numerous infrastructure projects, which continue around the clock. The Government of National Stability, based in Benghazi, draws inspiration from other countries in the region with similar economies and populations, such as the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Oman. This aspiration is reflected in the city’s ambitious plans to become the “Dubai of the Mediterranean.” With a population of less than eight million people and an abundance of high-quality oil reserves, primarily located in the eastern part of the country, Libya is well-positioned to capitalize on its strategic location near Central and Eastern Europe.
The country’s proximity to Europe, coupled with its vast natural gas reserves, makes it an attractive partner for European nations seeking to diversify their energy sources. This is reflected in the relatively low cost of fuel, with a full tank costing the equivalent of just one euro. The old province of Cyrenaica is determined to carve out its own unique path, one that prioritizes economic diversification and a future focused on renewable energy.
Despite the progress made, Libya still faces significant challenges, particularly in achieving lasting political unity. The country remains divided between two administrations: the Government of National Unity in Tripoli, recognized by the United Nations but controlling only about 20% of the territory, and the Government of Stability in Benghazi, which governs around 80% of the country. The city of Benghazi is home to the House of Representatives, the national parliament.
In an effort to move towards unity, the House of Representatives approved the National Reconciliation Law earlier this year, which is expected to be a crucial step towards reunifying the country. The Presidential Council has also called for elections to be held throughout the year. In addition to the parliament, other national institutions, such as the Central Bank and the Fund for Development and Reconstruction, play a vital role in rebuilding the country’s infrastructure, including the devastated town of Derna.
The Libyan National Army is a source of pride for the population, having played a crucial role in establishing security and stability in the country. The army’s efforts have been instrumental in preventing the reemergence of jihadist militias and disrupting irregular migration routes to Europe. As one young taxi driver, who lived through the trauma of ISIS’s presence in his neighborhood, recounted, “It’s a different country now. I don’t want to remember those times.”
Benghazi’s streets are now filled with the sounds of construction and commerce, as the city undergoes a significant transformation. Modern shopping centers, restaurants, and cafes have sprung up, catering to a diverse clientele. The presence of international brands, including Spanish products, is notable, reflecting the city’s aspirations to become a major commercial hub in the eastern Mediterranean.
The authorities are also investing heavily in education, with the revamped University of Benghazi boasting over 70,000 students, as well as the Arab University for Medical Science and Technology, which aims to attract talent from around the world. The newly inaugurated International Stadium, financed by the Fund for Development and Reconstruction, is another example of the city’s commitment to sports and development.
As Libya looks to the future, its government is extending an invitation to Spain to play a more significant role in the country’s development. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abdul Hadi al-Hawaij, emphasized the strong historical and cultural ties between the two nations, saying, “The Libyan people have a great affection for the Spanish people, and we respect them deeply.” However, al-Hawaij also called for greater Spanish investment in Libya, urging Spanish companies to take advantage of the country’s vast resources and opportunities.
With its unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and strategic location, Libya is poised to become a major player in the region. As the country continues to rebuild and develop, it is clear that Benghazi will be at the forefront of this transformation, driven by the determination and resilience of its people.