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Mr. Feltman emphasized the importance of further developing bilateral agreements between Libya and the US. He explained that these agreements have played a vital role in the security of the Middle East and North African region. Libya has become an integral part of the security of these regions with its position on the United Nations Security Council and commitment of troop levels to the African Union.

Mr. Feltman asserted that Libya’s involvement had a vital and constructive role in the Darfur and Chad crisis and helped to reach ceasefire agreements with Chadian Rebels. Libya’s further participation in security issues in the Middle East and North Africa is anticipated with its increasing influence in the region. This influence is being fueled by its support for human rights and regional peace keeping operations, as evident in its contribution of troops and supplies to the African Union.

Mr. Feltman confirmed that the lifting of economic sanctions was followed by a 30 billion dollar investment in development projects in Libya, and has had a very positive impact on commerce and trade between the US and Libya. He added that these investments can be seen in the exchange and sharing of science and technology between Libya and the US, particularly in the areas of health, education, archeology, and renewable energy. These areas of exchange serve as milestones for improving Libya’s ability to export economic resources — a state of affairs that is beneficial to Libya, the US and other Western countries. As a result, commerce and trade have increased Libya’s exports to the US by 40%, and exports from the US to Libya have increased by 17%. Feltman added that there is still much potential to develop Libya’s resources and assets, particularly in the petroleum industry where Libya’s greatest natural reserves exist.

Mr. Feltman highlighted the importance of developing Libya’s academic opportunities through more student exchanges in institutions of higher education in the US. He commented that before sanctions were imposed, there were over 7,000 Libyan students studying in the US and that it is critical for both the US and Libya to increase the current number of Libyan students studying in America. He added that Libya must work hard to overcome the challenge of preserving its rich cultural heritage on one hand, and at the same time develop a competitive academic curriculum by recruiting more English teachers and fostering greater tolerance for academic exchanges and study abroad programs.

With respect to democracy, Mr. Feltman stated that Libya still has progress to make to safeguard critical freedoms, notably freedom of expression and association. He added that the freedom of expression without any political or criminal repercussions, as well as the freedom of association, is imperative in a democracy.

The last point of his address at the luncheon turned towards the past and settling claims against Libya for its involvement in terrorist plots and attacks. He explained that these proceedings take a long time due to the slow pace of judicial proceedings in the countries concerned. However, there are avenues that are currently being pursued to hasten proceedings, especially bearing into consideration Libya’s willingness to participate in an open dialogue. Feltman concluded that by taking responsibility for its actions and paying reparations to victims, Libya has demonstrated that it has the desire and ability to serve as a positive influence in the region.