Libya, through its Ministry of Oil and Gas, is advancing its strategy to boost oil and gas production through cooperation and strengthen its role as a regional energy hub. At LEES, Minister Abdulsadek is expected to highlight the Ministry’s increased focus capacity building initiatives, including programs such as the Energy Jeel Initiative, which aims to develop Libyan skills, technology and services in the oil and gas sector. The Ministry’s endorsement also reinforces ongoing efforts to attract international investment, support infrastructure projects and facilitate partnerships that expand upstream and downstream production, and modernize Libya’s energy facilities.

Since his appointment in April 2024, the Minister has engaged Libyan stakeholders and international partners to advance Libya’s energy sector. He recently met with National Oil Corporation (NOC) officials to align on production targets, address financing and infrastructure challenges, and expand domestic gas supply, while also reaffirming partnerships with international operators. Minister Abdulsadek recently held a bilateral meeting with Austrian energy company OMV, which has resumed exploration after more than a decade at Block 106/4 in the Sirte Basin.

Additionally, Minister Abdulsadek met with Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Nigeria, discussing cooperation on natural gas projects, including the proposed transnational pipeline linking Libya and Nigeria for exports to European markets. The Minister recently engaged a senior Shell delegation on investment opportunities in exploration and production. This engagement by the Ministry underlines Libya’s commitment to strategic partnerships that expand upstream development, modernize infrastructure and increase output. These efforts also form part of Libya’s wider strategy to strengthen energy security and attract global investment.

Alongside international investment, Libya’s Ministry of Oil and Gas is advancing a comprehensive strategy to build domestic capacity in Libya’s energy sector. Central to this approach is the Energy Jeel Initiative. The program is designed to equip young Libyans with the technical skills, leadership capabilities and entrepreneurial tools needed for the country’s evolving energy landscape.

By promoting innovation, gender inclusion and regional collaboration, the initiative ensures Libya’s youth are prepared to lead in both upstream oil and gas as well as renewable energy projects. the initiative also complements Libya’s broader goals of economic diversification, sustainable energy development and inclusive growth, ensuring the benefits of resource development reach future generations.

As Libya continues to advance several high-profile projects aimed at revitalizing its energy sector, the Minister’s support for LEES 2026 signals renewed momentum for the country’s energy ambitions and its openness to global collaboration. The country recently launched its first international licensing round in 17 years, offering 22 on- and offshore exploration blocks. This initiative is designed to attract global investors and operators, bolstered by Libya’s proven oil reserves – estimated at 48.4 billion barrels – and natural gas reserves of approximately 1.5 trillion cubic meters. Major international companies including Repsol, Eni, Sonatrach, bp, OMV and TotalEnergies have already resumed and sustained operations in Libya, reflecting growing confidence in the country’s energy potential.