Libya prefers French diplomat over Italian contender for EU mission leadership

In a diplomatic twist, Libya has chosen to overlook Italy's proposed candidate to lead the European Union's mission in the country, opting instead for a French diplomat. This unexpected decision, disclosed by two anonymous EU diplomats, as per a report from Politico, marks a significant shift in Libya's foreign policy and has implications for Italy's engagement with North African nations.

Interim Libyan Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh's government in Tripoli has rejected Italy's candidate, Nicola Orlando, in favor of France's Patrick Simonnet. The move, deemed unusual in diplomatic circles, signals a departure from the status quo and suggests Libya's inclination toward strengthening ties with France.

A blow to Italy?

This development delivers a blow to Italy's right-wing Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who has emphasized increased engagement with North African countries as a cornerstone of her foreign policy agenda. The rivalry between Italy and France for influence in Libya has been ongoing, fueled by Libya's significance as a major oil provider and a crucial departure point for migrants bound for Europe.

Why was the Italian candidate rejected?

José Sabadell, the current EU envoy to Tripoli, is set to conclude his term on Friday. Nicola Orlando's rejection in July stemmed from concerns raised by the European External Action Service (EEAS), the EU's diplomatic arm. Orlando, who had previously served as Rome's deputy head of mission to Tripoli and special representative to Libya, was perceived as too closely associated with the country's intricate political landscape.

His extensive engagement with Libyan National Army leader Khalifa Haftar, a prominent figure in eastern Libya and seen as a rival to the current Libyan government, seemed to have played a role in his rejection. In contrast, Patrick Simonnet, the French candidate, lacks prior experience in Libya. However, he has recently served as the EU's envoy to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Oman, bringing his diplomatic expertise to the forefront.

Libya's decision to favor a fresh face over an established figure in its European diplomatic affairs reflects the nation's evolving foreign policy as it navigates the complex aftermath of years of political instability. The selection of Simonnet as the potential leader of the EU mission adds another layer to the intricate web of diplomatic relations in the region, and it remains to be seen how this decision will impact the broader geopolitical landscape.