Belqasim Haftar: “The Development and Reconstruction Fund Follows a Strict Financial Governance System and Maintains a Neutral Stance”

Belqasim Haftar, Director General of the Libya Development and Reconstruction Fund, affirmed in an exclusive interview with the Italian agency that Italy and the European Union are strategic partners for Libya, and their support is essential to ensure development and reconstruction that benefits the entire region. He emphasized the importance of tangible commitment from international partners.

According to Nova Agency, the Fund’s director outlined four key sectors as priorities for cooperation between Libya and European countries, which must be the focus for reviving the Libyan economy: infrastructure, education, healthcare, and security.

Haftar stated that enhancing investments in infrastructure projects is crucial to support reconstruction, highlighting the investment opportunities available for Italian and European companies. At the same time, he stressed the need for investment in training and knowledge transfer to build a skilled workforce.

He added that strengthening cooperation in the fields of security, politics, and the economy is of utmost importance to ensure the stability of Libya and the entire region.

He confirmed that Europe and Italy must participate actively in training and continuous learning programs.

The Fund’s director stated that Libya’s stability is vital for the entire Mediterranean region, and they intend to build strong strategic partnerships to achieve this shared goal.

Financial Management:

He continued by stating that one of the most critical aspects for Libya’s future concerns the management of funds allocated for reconstruction.

He explained that the Development and Reconstruction Fund operates with funds allocated from the Libyan state’s public budget and follows a strict financial governance system.

He said, “We cooperate with all relevant Libyan institutions and ensure transparency and fairness in project distribution,” noting that the most recent meeting was held with the Governor of the Central Bank of Libya in the city of Derna. However, the matter remains complex due to the lack of an accepted general budget between the two rival administrations in Libya: the Government of National Unity led by the Prime Minister, and on the other hand, the Government of National Stability led by the eastern parliament-appointed Prime Minister, Osama Hammad.

To ensure transparency and oversight, Belqasim Haftar said that the Fund relies on a system of periodic auditing and operates according to the financial laws of the state. In explaining the Fund’s development strategies, he clarified that the Fund follows an integrated approach focusing on five main sectors.

According to Haftar, the Fund’s comprehensive national strategy is based on an integrated approach that includes the redevelopment of essential infrastructure such as roads, airports, and power stations. Other core pillars include investment in education and healthcare, which are considered fundamental to the country’s growth. In addition, the strategy includes the provision of housing and urban infrastructure through integrated construction projects.

He pointed out that projects are implemented through various mechanisms, including open tenders and direct contracts depending on the nature of the project, highlighting the goal of ensuring a balance between local and international companies, while guaranteeing transparency and fairness in the distribution of projects.

Haftar stressed that the Fund maintains a neutral stance and does not interfere in internal affairs.

He said, “We refrain from interfering in internal political affairs and focus exclusively on achieving sustainable development and reconstruction in all Libyan cities and regions, as the Fund respects the choices of the Libyan people.” However, following the success of the recent local elections, the international community is closely monitoring the upcoming parliamentary and presidential elections, which are considered a decisive step in enhancing political stability.