The two-day (28 to 29 November) visit by the French health sector delegation to Tripoli has reinvigorated bilateral trade relations, the French embassy told Libya Herald.
Labelled the ‘‘Libya-French Health Day’’, and at the invitation of the Libyan Ministry of Health, 20 representatives of 10 leading French companies with interest in the health sector took part in an event entitled the ‘‘Health Diplomacy Forum’’ held at the former King’s Palace.
From the French side, the event also included French Ambassador Mostafa Mihraje, the leading French business association, MEDEF International, and the French Health Association (French Healthcare) representing over 300 key French public and private healthcare companies.
The Libyan participation was led by Deputy Prime Minister and Acting Minister of Health, Ramadan Abujanah and head of the Union of Libyan Chambers of Commerce Mohamed Raied.
Abu Janah announced his desire to open the field of technical cooperation with France to implement development programmes for the southern regions in several fields, including the health sector.
The Libyan Health Ministry reported that the event included activities, lectures and workshops on strengthening the health aspect in Libya, and the signing of a memorandum of understanding on the development of the health sector in Libya.
French Ambassador Mostafa Mihraje referred to the event as a ‘’success’’, adding that ‘‘Many French companies have responded to contribute to the reconstruction of the Libyan health system.’’
Fanny Labarthe, the Economic Councillor at the French Embassy for Tunis and Tripoli told Libya Herald the event was ‘‘very positive in substance and format. It signalled a growing and strong relationship between Libya and France and a renewal of economic relationship in this sector which can be duplicated in other sectors.’’
Labarthe added that trade between the two countries is still ongoing, and that the Libyan health sector has huge potential for French companies since their expertise is highly recognised.
The arrival of Mihraje as Ambassador has created a new impetus and dynamic in bilateral trade relations paving the way for improved cooperation.
New French Ambassador Mostafa Mihraje arrives in Tripoli to assume his post (libyaherald.com)
Libyan Turkish Hospital in Misrata opens: to set new healthcare standard in Libya (libyaherald.com)
