Rédaction Africa Links 24 with H Mohammed
Published on 2024-02-27 17:13:33
The Executive Director of the Libya Reconstruction Fund, Belkasem Haftar, recently engaged in discussions with US Chargé d’Affaires Jeremy Berndt to explore opportunities for joint cooperation and support in the ongoing reconstruction efforts in Libya. The two officials specifically discussed the Fund’s strategy to promote comprehensive development, particularly in Libyan cities affected by the devastation caused by Storm Daniel.
The destructive impact of Storm Daniel was particularly felt in Derna, where the collapse of two dams upstream resulted in severe flooding on September 9. Tragically, over 20,000 people lost their lives as a result of the torrent of water that washed away entire neighborhoods and damaged critical sewage and water infrastructure. The aftermath of the disaster left a significant portion of the city in ruins, with essential services disrupted and communities struggling to recover.
According to the United Nations, the scale of the destruction in Derna has been immense, and the process of rebuilding and restoring essential infrastructure is ongoing. The need for external support and expertise to facilitate the reconstruction efforts is crucial to ensure that the city can recover and thrive once again.
During their phone conversation, Berndt conveyed the United States’ willingness to provide technical and logistical support through American companies specializing in reconstruction. Additionally, the US expressed readiness to deploy experts in geology and dam engineering to collaborate with the Fund’s management team. This offer of assistance underscores the commitment of the US to assist Libya in overcoming the challenges posed by the aftermath of the natural disaster.
In response, Belkasem Haftar welcomed the role of the United States in supporting the reconstruction and development initiatives in Derna. He expressed his appreciation for the offer of technical expertise and logistical support, emphasizing the importance of international partnerships in the rebuilding process. Haftar also expressed his aspirations to further develop the partnership with the US in the areas of reconstruction and technical support, recognizing the valuable contribution that such collaboration can make towards the recovery of affected communities.
The discussions between the Executive Director of the Libya Reconstruction Fund and the US Chargé d’Affaires highlight the importance of international cooperation in addressing the challenges faced by countries recovering from natural disasters. The exchange of expertise, resources, and technical assistance is essential in accelerating the reconstruction process and helping affected communities rebuild their lives.
As the reconstruction efforts in Derna and other affected areas in Libya continue, the support and collaboration of international partners like the United States play a crucial role in ensuring the successful recovery and sustainable development of these communities. The commitment to working together towards a common goal of rebuilding and restoring essential infrastructure reflects a shared vision of a better future for the people of Libya.
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