The Blue Economy in Libya: Challenges and Obstacles – Integrating Biodiversity and the Fisheries Sector into the National Action Plan (NAP)”
The first workshop titled “The Blue Economy in Libya: Challenges and Obstacles – Integrating Biodiversity and the Fisheries Sector into the National Action Plan (NAP)” launched this morning, Wednesday, June 10, 2026, in the city of Derna at the Derna Pearl Hotel. The event saw broad participation from representatives of academic institutions, government bodies, civil society organizations, and experts in environmental and marine affairs.
The opening session featured official speeches delivered by Prof. Dr. Nasr Ayad Al-Mansouri, President of Derna University; Ms. Sirine Mesleh, representative of the Specially Protected Areas Regional Activity Centre (SPA/RAC); Prof. Dr. Ismail Abdelsalam Al-Shaqman, Chairman of the Steering Committee and National Committee for the Blue Economy; and Mr. Ali Al-Montaser, representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
The speakers emphasized the importance of the workshop in supporting the state’s transition toward a blue economy and advancing the sustainable management of marine and coastal resources. They also highlighted the need to unify national and international efforts to protect marine biodiversity and foster sustainable development.
The scientific sessions included several specialized lectures aimed at fostering dialogue and knowledge exchange among key stakeholders. The workshop focuses on addressing the challenges and obstacles to implementing the blue economy concept in Libya, with the ultimate goal of formulating actionable recommendations and proposals to integrate biodiversity and the fisheries sector into national policies and plans.