Ahmed Omar Maiteeq (Arabic: أحمد عمر معيتيق; born 1972) is a Libyan businessman and politician known for his contributions to Libya’s economic and political landscape. He has held various high-ranking positions, including Vice Chairman of the Presidential Council (2016–2021) and Deputy Prime Minister of the Government of National Accord (2016–2021).
Early Life and Education
Born in Misrata in 1972 and raised in Tripoli, Maiteeq was instilled with values of civic duty, volunteerism, and respect for the rule of law from a young age. His father, a teacher, Scout Leader, and Libya’s youngest elected MP in 1965, inspired his early interest in business. After studying International Business in Italy and Global Economics in London, Maiteeq returned to manage family enterprises in construction, hospitality, and real estate.
Political Career
Maiteeq entered politics during the Libyan Civil War (2011), joining the Civil Development and Stability Committee. By 2013, he became an economic advisor to the General National Congress (GNC) and was briefly elected Prime Minister of Libya in 2014.[3] Following a legal dispute, he resigned after the Supreme Court invalidated his appointment, prioritizing national stability.
In late 2015, Maiteeq was appointed as Deputy Prime Minister and Vice Chairman of the Presidential Council under the Government of National Accord (GNA), established through the UN-backed Libyan Political Agreement. He played a key role in economic reforms and diplomatic negotiations, including brokering a ceasefire between the GNA and Marshal Khalifa Haftar in June 2020.[4]
Economic and Diplomatic Achievements
Launched an economic reform program in 2018[5] to improve living standards and stabilize the Libyan Dinar.
Negotiated an agreement in September 2020 that ended a nine-month oil blockade, boosting exports to over one million barrels per day.[6]
Led initiatives for national reconciliation and economic revitalization.
Coordinated security strategies against ISIS (2016–2017).[7]
Promoted military unification efforts between Libya’s eastern and western factions.[8]
2021 Presidential Candidacy
Maiteeq announced his candidacy for the Libyan presidency in 2021,[9] advocating for inclusive governance, economic stability, and national unity. He continues to be an influential figure in Libya’s political and economic spheres, promoting investment in the energy sector and fostering international partnerships.[10]
Key Discussion Points for International Energy Week[11]
Sustainable Investment in Libya’s Oil & Gas Sector
Commitment to environmentally responsible practices, including eliminating gas flaring.
Promotion of carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) initiatives.
Libya’s Role in Global Energy Security
Strategic proximity to Europe as a stable, short-haul energy supplier.
Development of Libya’s vast natural gas reserves.
Untapped Potential and Resource Quality
Libya’s light, sweet crude oil known for low sulfur content.
Over 70% of Libya remains unexplored, offering major opportunities.
Renewable Energy Integration
Plans to integrate solar energy, including the 500MW TotalEnergies solar project.
Upcoming Investment Opportunities
Libya’s first exploration and production licensing round in nearly two decades.
Brownfield redevelopment opportunities for enhanced output efficiency.
Libya NOC’s Growth Strategy
Vision to increase oil production to 2 million barrels per day and natural gas output to 4 billion cubic feet daily.
Key projects: infrastructure upgrades, revitalization of pipelines.
Improved Fiscal and Regulatory Environment
New investor-friendly fiscal terms and streamlined regulations.
Focus on public-private partnerships to drive innovation and efficiency.
Call to Action for Collaborative Leadership
Appeal to global energy stakeholders to invest in Libya’s energy transition strategy.
See also
References
- ^ "Countries L". rulers.org. Archived from the original on 16 April 2016. Retrieved 5 April 2016.
- ^ "Libya's new prime minister". 8 May 2014. Archived from the original on 3 October 2016. Retrieved 30 September 2016.
- ^ "Libya confirms Maiteeq as new prime minister". France 24. 5 May 2014. Retrieved 21 February 2025.
- ^ "Ahmed Maiteeq, a politician who can make a difference". cyprus-mail.com. 20 January 2021. Retrieved 21 February 2025.
- ^ "Deputy head of PC reviews implementation of economic reforms with Williams | The Libya Observer". libyaobserver.ly. 24 July 2023. Retrieved 21 February 2025.
- ^ "Maiteeq announces agreement to resume oil production and distribute revenues | The Libya Observer". libyaobserver.ly. 18 February 2025. Retrieved 21 February 2025.
- ^ "Ahmed Maiteeq on Conflict Zone – DW – 11/20/2019". dw.com. Retrieved 21 February 2025.
- ^ "MED Dialogue with Ahmed Omar Maiteeq". ISPI. Retrieved 21 February 2025.
- ^ Mohammed, Hanan (17 November 2021). "Libya's former Deputy PM runs for president". Libya Update News. Retrieved 21 February 2025.
- ^ Auge, Louis (18 December 2020). "Economics first: Ahmed Maiteeq's approach to the Libyan unity is working". EU Reporter. Retrieved 21 February 2025.
- ^ "Ahmed Maiteeq, a politician who can make a difference". cyprus-mail.com. 20 January 2021. Retrieved 21 February 2025.