Libya’s Khalifa Haftar Meets French President Macron in Paris
Paris — Libya’s eastern military leader, Khalifa Haftar, met with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Elysee Palace to discuss Libya’s ongoing political crisis and the role of the United Nations in stabilizing the country, Haftar’s Benghazi-based forces announced.
According to a statement posted on social media Wednesday evening, the two leaders discussed “developments in the political process in Libya and the importance of supporting the UN mission’s efforts.” A photo accompanying the statement showed Macron and Haftar shaking hands.
Libya has been mired in political turmoil since the 2011 NATO-backed uprising that led to the ousting of longtime ruler Muammar Qaddafi. The country remains divided between the Tripoli-based Government of National Unity and a rival administration in the east aligned with Haftar.
The statement also noted that Macron acknowledged Haftar’s “central role” in Libya’s political process and long-term stability. However, when contacted by AFP, the French presidency declined to confirm or comment on the meeting.
The visit underscores France’s continued engagement in Libya’s complex political landscape as international efforts to broker a lasting solution remain ongoing.
