Libya and Russia have engaged in high-level discussions aimed at deepening cooperation in the oil and gas sector, Libyan officials announced on Tuesday.

Libya’s Minister of Oil and Gas, Khalifa Rajab Abdul Sadiq, met with Russia’s Ambassador to Libya, Aidar Aganin, in the capital to explore ways of expanding bilateral ties in energy. The meeting focused on partnership opportunities, technical and investment coordination, and strategies to develop Libya’s important hydrocarbon sector.

According to a statement from Libya’s Ministry of Oil and Gas, the talks were intended to serve the “mutual interests” of both countries and support broader efforts to strengthen Libya’s international relations with key energy partners.

The ministry said the discussions are part of ongoing efforts to boost production stability, improve efficiency in the sector, and enhance the role of oil and gas in the Libyan economy. Libya’s hydrocarbon sector remains the backbone of government revenue and a central pillar for economic recovery.

Officials highlighted the importance of attracting technical expertise and investment, including from Russian companies, to help modernize energy infrastructure and expand exploration and production activities. This follows recent moves by Libya to renew energy partnerships and attract foreign investment after years of conflict and operational setbacks in the oil industry.