Libyan Parliament Speaker Aguila Saleh described Libya’s ties with Russia as standing on solid, high ground, emphasizing that Moscow recognizes the legitimacy of the Libyan institutions chosen by the Libyan people. In discussions with media representatives and during follow-up briefings, Saleh outlined a relationship that is built on mutual respect and shared interests, noting that Russia has consistently supported the rule of law in Libya. He pointed out that this support aligns with the stance shown by other friendly partners who acknowledge the Libyan will and work with it in a constructive and respectful fashion. (official statements)
He stressed that the cooperation with Russia has not only preserved stability but also reinforced the constitutional processes shaping Libya’s governance. Saleh highlighted that Russia’s position has had tangible significance in affirming the authority of the elected Libyan parliament, a factor he described as central to the country’s ongoing political normalization. By underscoring the clear expression of support from the State Duma, he indicated that this endorsement carries weight in confirming the legitimacy of the government chosen by Libyans themselves. (official statements)
Today, Libya continues to face a dual-government situation, with authorities in the eastern region led by Fethi Bashagha and authorities in Tripoli led by Abdulhamid Dbeibah. The path to nationwide consensus has been obstructed by the absence of a widely agreed constitutional framework, which ultimately postponed elections that had been planned for 2021. The timing and framework for any future elections remain unsettled as the political landscape seeks a stable and inclusive process that can gain broader legitimacy within Libyan society and among international partners. (official statements)
In a separate note, Saleh expressed a desire to meet with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan before year’s end, signaling ongoing regional diplomacy aimed at consolidating Libya’s external partnerships and addressing shared security and economic interests. The speaker’s outreach reflects Libya’s broad engagement with international actors as it navigates governance challenges and seeks to align external support with Libyan constitutional and democratic aspirations. (official statements)
Meanwhile, broader regional economic shifts have continued to influence how Russia and other countries conduct trade and payments with Africa. There has been commentary about how ruble-based settlement mechanisms are being used more selectively in some African financial exchanges, a trend attributed to evolving strategic and economic considerations. These discussions underscore the importance of currency alignments and payment arrangements in sustaining long-term cooperation between Libya and its international partners. (economic analysis)