Tripoli, February 11, 2026 – The Chief of the General Staff of the Libyan Army met with the commander of the French fleet in the Mediterranean region, who is on his first official visit to Libya.
The Chief of Staff welcomed the Admiral, who was accompanied by the French military attaché to Libya, expressing appreciation for this visit, which reflects the importance of communication and coordination between the Libyan and French military institutions and enhances paths of joint cooperation.
During the meeting, according to the General Staff, a number of issues of mutual interest were discussed, along with areas of bilateral cooperation between the two countries, in a way that serves security and stability in the Mediterranean region.
Tripoli
Tripoli is the capital and largest city of Libya, with a history dating back to the 7th century BC when it was founded by the Phoenicians. It later became a significant Roman city and a major port under various rulers, including the Ottomans and Italians, which is reflected in its diverse architecture like the ancient Medina and Red Castle.
Libya
Libya is a North African country with a rich history rooted in ancient civilizations like the Phoenicians and Romans, followed by centuries of Arab and Ottoman influence. In the modern era, it was an Italian colony before gaining independence in 1951, later becoming known for Muammar Gaddafi’s lengthy rule from 1969 until the 2011 revolution. Its cultural sites include the well-preserved Roman ruins of Leptis Magna, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Libyan Army
The Libyan Army is the official military force of Libya, originally established after the country gained independence in 1951. Its history has been marked by significant fragmentation and conflict, particularly following the 2011 civil war and the fall of Muammar Gaddafi, leading to its division among various rival factions vying for control.
French fleet
The French fleet refers to the naval forces of France, which have played a significant role in European and global history since the 17th century under leaders like Louis XIV and Napoleon. It was instrumental in exploration, colonial expansion, and major conflicts, including the Battle of the Chesapeake, which aided the American Revolution.
Mediterranean region
The Mediterranean region is a historical and cultural area surrounding the Mediterranean Sea, known as the cradle of several ancient civilizations including the Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, and Phoenicians. Its history is defined by trade, cultural exchange, and conflict, which shaped foundational aspects of Western and Middle Eastern art, law, philosophy, and religion. Today, it remains a vibrant and diverse region where this layered heritage is evident in its languages, cuisine, and archaeological sites.
France
France is a Western European nation with a rich history dating back to ancient Gaul, later shaped by Roman conquest, the rise of the monarchy, and the influential French Revolution of 1789. It is globally renowned for its cultural contributions in art, cuisine, philosophy, and as a center of Enlightenment thought.
General Staff of the Libyan Army
The General Staff of the Libyan Army is the central command headquarters for Libya’s military forces. Historically, it was established after Libya gained independence in 1951 and has been a key institution through the monarchy, Gaddafi’s rule, and the subsequent periods of conflict and transition following the 2011 revolution.
French military attaché
The French military attaché is a commissioned officer serving as a defense and strategic liaison at a French embassy abroad. The role, formalized in the 19th century, involves fostering military cooperation, providing analysis on foreign armed forces, and facilitating arms procurement and training exchanges. This diplomatic post is a key instrument of France’s defense policy and international security partnerships.
