After the internal turmoil that started in Libya in 2011, the project of approximately $19 billion was left unfinished after Turkish companies decided to leave the country. The receivables of more than a hundred Turkish companies that have been doing business in the country for years were not collected. It is stated that the Libyan authorities have the will to take steps to solve the problems regarding the pending receivables of Turkish companies. The Turkish business world expects a payment of $1.1 billion for these receivables to be made in the near future.
BROTHERHOOD AND EXPERIENCE
Considering the brotherhood bond between Turkey and Libya and the experience of Turkish businesspeople doing business in Libya, Turkey is considered to be one of the countries that can receive support for the reconstruction of the country. During the internal turmoil that started in Libya in February 2011, Turkish contracting firms had to leave their work unfinished and return to Turkey with 25 thousand Turkish workers working in the country as a result of the burning and looting of their construction sites. Turkey played an important role in the establishment of the transitional government and the election process to be held in December. Contrary to those who ignored the call of the legitimate government, Turkey, which provides military and technical consultancy services for the peace and security of Libyans, cemented its place in the hearts of the people. Experts note that European companies wanted to take part in the projects during the rebuilding process, but the Libyan people perceived the Europeans as colonialists. It is stated that the confidence in Turkish products is also effective in Turkey’s increasing exports to Libya in the recent period. Turkey stands out as an important actor due to its strong historical ties and determined policies in the Libyan civil war, as well as standing against the colonial mentality that saw Libya as a source of oil for years.
Source: Sabah / Translated by Irem Yildiz
