Libya: Italian firms in Benghazi to restore the historic centre

“Our aim is to carry out this work in collaboration with Libyan professionals and institutions, both during the planning phase and throughout the implementation, by making Italy’s expertise in the restoration, conservation and reconstruction of historic centres available,” explains Luca Latini, coordinator of the design team.

For Nicola Colicchi, president of the Italian-Libyan Chamber of Commerce, the mission marks the culmination of a process of establishing a presence and building relationships over the last two years in Cyrenaica: ‘For over two years, Italian companies have been consolidating their presence in Cyrenaica. The development of Benghazi and, more generally, of the entire region is now one of the most interesting economic and infrastructural developments in the Mediterranean,” says Colicchi.

According to the Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies, geographical proximity and economic complementarity make the Libyan market particularly significant, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises. ‘For our businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, Libya represents a market of extraordinary interest: close to Italia, complementary to our production system and characterised by a growing demand for expertise, technology and implementation capabilities.’

Strengthening relations involves collaboration with the Libyan Development and Reconstruction Fund, headed by engineer Belqasim Haftar. “The Italian-Libyan Chamber of Commerce and the Fund began a collaborative process two years ago that is now yielding tangible results,” emphasises Colicchi. “On the one hand, there is the excellence of Italian know-how; on the other, an institutional partner capable of supporting our businesses and providing a more reliable framework for commercial relations, payments, logistics and the conduct of business in the region.”

The President identifies the regeneration of the historic centre as an area in which Italy can demonstrate a specific competitive advantage. ‘A significant proportion of the city’s historic buildings date back to the Italian period and retain a strong Italian architectural influence. It is therefore an area in which Italian expertise in design, restoration, conservation and urban regeneration can make a particularly valuable contribution.’

The aim, he adds, is to turn institutional relations into industrial opportunities and operational contracts. ‘These missions are enabling Italian designers, companies and experts to engage directly with the Libyan bodies responsible for the city’s development, with the aim of turning the institutional relationship built up over recent years into projects and operational partnerships.’

The visit comes just a few weeks after Italy’s participation in Benghazi Urban, an international event dedicated to the city’s reconstruction, held from 6 to 8 September on the initiative of the Fund’s director. On that occasion, the Italian-Libyan Chamber of Commerce had accompanied over 40 Italian organisations – including businesses, professionals and organisations – to Benghazi, making up the largest foreign delegation present at the fair.

The historic centre of Benghazi was severely damaged by the fighting between 2014 and 2017 and by the subsequent demolitions. Over 150 buildings of interest have been identified in the area, including the Cathedral, the historic bank buildings and the Italian Consulate. The Committee for the Reconstruction of the Al-Sabri Area and the Centre of Benghazi was established by the Fund by Resolution No. 10 of 2026.

Within the framework outlined by the Chamber of Commerce, the decisive factor is now the ability to move the technical consultation phase towards the start of construction work. “Today in Benghazi, companies can operate within an organised framework, with a direct relationship with the institutions and adequate safety conditions for staff and operations,” concludes Colicchi. “This is an important factor, alongside the possibility of having clearly identified points of contact and a decision-making process that enables projects to be taken forward in a practical manner.”