A report from Libya’s state-run media claims the recent Rome International Conference on Migration and Development “will not establish mechanisms” to stem irregular migration from Africa to Europe, raising concerns about hidden motives to permanently settle migrants in Libya. “Despite the fanfare surrounding it, this is not the first nor last conference to produce impractical proposals on south-north migration,” wrote WAL’s Africa editor. Rome Conference Seen as Imposing Western AgendaWAL reiterated Libya rejects “Western dictates” and the exploitation of its instability to permanently settle migrants and make it “pay the price” for Europe’s benefit. WAL remains skeptical the Rome conference represents another attempt “to impose Western colonial-era policies on North Africa” and settle migrants permanently in Libya and the Mediterranean “under the guise of cooperation.”Absence of Haftar Raises QuestionsSome Libyan observers have expressed concerns over the notable absence of Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar, commander of the Libyan National Army, from the Rome conference. They question whether this risks straining relations between Italy and Haftar’s forces, potentially impacting security coordination along Libya’s borders to restrict illegal migration into Europe.

Source: Libya Today July 25, 2023 11:53 UTC