LEADER of Libya's National Transitional Council (NTC) Mustafa Abdel-Jalil paid a two-day visit to Egypt, his first abroad since the fall of Muammar Gaddafi's regime. The trip is designed to improve bilateral relations and opening up a new chapter in relations between Libya and Egypt. Abdel-Jalil discussed cooperation prospects and boosting investments during a meeting with Field Marshal Hussein Tantawi, head of the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces. Abdel-Jalil also met with Prime Minister Essam Sharaf and Secretary-General of the Arab League Nabil El-Arabi. Abdel-Jalil's visit signals a new beginning in Libya's dealings with Arab countries. Gaddafi maintained poor relations with most Arab countries that were at best lukewarm and in most instances bellicose. Economically, Libya is hoping to boost trade and economic ties with Arab countries in the post-Gaddafi period. Prospects for the Libyan economy are particularly promising, Abdel-Jalil assured his Egyptian hosts. The construction, agricultural, mining and manufacturing sectors are in need of Arab investments especially as the reconstruction process following the Libyan civil war might prove to be a lengthy process. Libya may also need Arab labour and technical expertise.
