Libya is making measurable progress in revitalizing its economy through strategic investments in port infrastructure, particularly at Sirte Port, a key hub in central Libya. Once a major conflict zone during the 2016 civil strife, the area has seen renewed activity as national tensions ease and cooperation between eastern and western administrations strengthens. The port resumed commercial operations in February after a 14-year suspension, marked by the arrival of the cargo vessel Sea Horizon from Alexandria, Egypt, carrying construction supplies for local development zones. n nThe Sirte Free Zone Authority (SFZA) recently reported significant advancements in the $2 billion SSS highway initiative, designed to connect the port with southern urban centers like Sabha and Sokna. This transportation corridor aligns with Libya’s Vision 2030 strategy, aiming to improve north-south connectivity and facilitate trade with landlocked African nations such as Chad, Mali, and Niger. Construction involves firms from Egypt and the UAE, indicating growing regional support for Libya’s reconstruction. n nAdditional upgrades include the installation of a smart port system, reportedly supported by Huawei, and the completion of a dedicated bitumen unloading terminal to aid rebuilding efforts. Commercial traffic is increasing, with recent arrivals including the Turkish cargo ship Lutuf from Gemlik, delivering approximately 1,000 tons of goods. These developments reflect a broader consensus on infrastructure as a catalyst for economic revival and regional integration. n
— News Original —nAs part of the ongoing economic reforms, Libya has reported progress on the development of Sirte Port and its connecting infrastructure. During the peak of hostilities between forces of west and east Libya in 2016, Sirte was one of the fiercest battlegrounds. With tensions between the two Libyan governments tapering down, development initiatives appear to be resuming. n nRecently, the two governments closed ranks in a move to allow Turkey to proceed with exploration of oil and gas off Libya’s Mediterranean waters. Ports development is another area that has gained national consensus in Libya, viewed as an importunity to revitalize trade relations for the country. n nSirte Port in central Libya is seen as one of the most strategic infrastructure initiatives. The port has potential to rekindle Libya’s trade with its landlocked neighbors including Chad, Mali and Niger. Sirte port resumed commercial operations in February after nearly 14 years of closure due to war in the region. The arrival of the general cargo ship Sea Horizon marked the reopening of the port. The vessel carrying construction materials and equipment for projects in Sirte Free Zone, arrived from Alexandria port in Egypt. n nLast month, Sirte Free Zone Authority (SFZA) announced notable progress in the construction of the “SSS” highway project. The $2 billion road project is expected to link Sirte port with key southern cities including Sabha and Sokna. The project is part of Libya’s Vision 2030 aimed at enhancing transportation between northern and southern Libya. In addition, it is envisioned that it will form a road corridor to the country’s landlocked neighbors. Notably, the project involves companies from Egypt and the UAE, signaling regional backing. n nThe SSS project involves plans to install smart port system in Sirte, reportedly with Huawei’s support. There has also been significant progress in construction of specialized terminals. Early this month, Sirte port announced completion of its first dedicated bitumen unloading platform, which will support in the reconstruction efforts. n nFurther, the port is celebrating increased commercial activity with docking of more vessels. Last week, the Turkish general cargo vessel Lutuf docked at the port. The vessel arrived from Turkey’s port of Gemlik and was carrying about 1,000 tons of goods.