Libya and Syria move to reset ties in landmark talks

Libya’s acting foreign minister met with Syria’s top diplomat on Wednesday, in the highest-level contact between the two governments in years. The meeting, held in the Syrian capital, focused on restarting diplomatic relations and deepening bilateral cooperation, according to officials familiar with the talks. The Libyan delegation, led by acting Foreign Minister Taher al-Baour, discussed with Syrian Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad issues of mutual interest, including political coordination and economic ties. No joint statement was issued after the meeting, but both sides described the discussions as “positive” and “constructive.” The encounter signals a potential shift in regional alignments, as both countries have faced international isolation in recent years—Libya amid civil conflict and Syria over its decade-long war. Analysts say closer ties between Tripoli and Damascus could reshape diplomatic dynamics in the Middle East and North Africa. The meeting did not produce a formal agreement, but both governments expressed interest in further dialogue.