By Libya Herald reporter.
Alexandria, 3 January 2017:
The Libya and Egyptian authorities have imposed fresh restrictions on travellers at the Musaid-Sollum border crossing. The move particularly affects Libyans between 15 and 50 years of age who until now had been able to cross the border simply by applying for permission through the local Libyan authorities. They will now require a visa.
The restriction is expected to last for at least until just after the anniversary of the 17 February Revolution. It is hoped by then new border crossing regulations will have been drawn up to enable the post to again operate normally .
At present, all Libyan males aged between 15 and 50 have to have a visa when entering Egypt. That remains the case for any arriving in the neighbouring country by plane or boat. However, an exception was made for the Musaid-Sollum crossing. There, Libyans within the age group could register at the municipalities in Tobruk, Musaid and Bir Al-Ashhab and, within ten days at most, permission from Egypt would have been granted for them to drive across the border.
In October 2015, this privilege was restricted to just residents from the three towns, but since then was broadened out again to any Libyan who made an application in person at one of the municipalities.
The latest decision to halt the border exceptions is said to be due to security concerns and is understood to have been taken after extensive intelligence consultations between both sides. It covers not only to those travelling to Egypt for business or tourism, but also Libya truck drivers bringing in Egyptian fruit and vegetables.
Drivers over 50 are not affected.
