Libya will be the host country for the 2026 African-Turkish Summit, according to a statement the African Union.

The decision was adopted during the 38th African Union Summit held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from February 15 to 16.

"Türkiye, as a strategic partner of the AU, will continue its close cooperation with the AU and contribute to the realization of Africa’s Agenda 2063 in the coming period," - Turkish Foreign Affairs Ministry stated.

Libya's Presidential Council said in its statement that the hosting represents renewed international recognition of Libya's potential and its pivotal role in enhancing dialogue and strategic cooperation between Africa and key countries, advancing shared interests and fostering more effective partnerships for the continent’s goals.

“This decision is the result of the diplomatic efforts made by the Libyan delegation during the summit, led by Libyan Presidential Council head Mohamed al-Menfi,” it added.

The statement also underscored the importance of Libya hosting the event as part of efforts to restore its active role and leadership position in Africa after its significant role in expanding economic, political and sustainable development cooperation.

The African Union, a 55-nation organization established in 2002 to replace the Organization of African Unity (OAU), aims to promote integration among its members and establish a common market. Türkiye became an observer member of the AU in 2005 and was declared a strategic partner of the Continent at the 2008 Summit.

Three African-Turkish partnership summits were held -- in Istanbul in 2008, Malabo, Equatorial Guinea in 2014 and Istanbul again in 2021.

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