Ankara condemns attempt to desecrate Turkish flag in Libya

Foreign Ministry of Turkey yesterday condemned an attack on a Turkish flag in the Libyan city of Tobruk by supporters of renegade General Khalifa Haftar, Anadolu reported.

In a statement, the Foreign Ministry noted that the attack intended to harm Turkey’s relationship with Libya.

“We strongly condemn the ugly action against our flag in front of the temporary building of the House of Representatives during the budget negotiations held on July 5, 2021 in Tobruk, Libya,” Foreign Ministry spokesperson Tanju Bilgic said.

Turkey has long enjoyed distinguished relations with the internationally-accredited Libyan Government of National Accord (GNA) in various fields. This authority was replaced by the Libyan Transitional Government which is due to step down after elections are held in late December. However, ties have remained strong.

On 12 April, Ankara and Tripoli concluded five multi-sectoral agreements to strengthen mutual ties.

Between  January-May, exports from Turkey to Libya reached $983 million, rising 67 per cent.

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