TRIPOLI: Libya’s government reached a deal with rebels yesterday to reopen two occupied oil ports accounting for 200,000 barrels per day of crude exports in a major breakthrough to end an eight-month blockade. Zueitina and Hariga ports — the two smallest of four terminals seized by rebels demanding more autonomy from Tripoli and a greater share of oil wealth — will be reopened soon.
Libya’s justice minister said two other larger occupied ports — Ras Lanuf and Es Sider — would be reopened after two to four weeks of further negotiations with the federalist rebels, who also said more talks were needed to reach a breakthrough. “The ports Zueitina and Hariga will be handed over to the state with the signature of this agreement. The protesters are banned from returning or obstructing work at the ports,” Justice Minister Salah Al Marghani said. Reuters
