Athens: A new round of Egyptian-Greek consultations on the situation in Libya took place yesterday in Athens, according to a report by the Cairo-based magazine Rose El Youssef. The talks were led by Ambassador Bassel Salah, Assistant Foreign Minister and Director of the Libyan Department, alongside Ambassador Andreas Friganis, Director General for Political Affairs at the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Greek Ambassador to Cairo and delegations from both nations were also in attendance.
According to Libyan News Agency, the discussions focused on the latest political and security developments in Libya and strategies to support the political process under United Nations guidance. Both countries emphasized the importance of a Libyan-led process culminating in simultaneous presidential and parliamentary elections, addressing the aspirations of the Libyan populace for stability and development while maintaining Libya's unity and territorial integrity.
Both parties expressed their opposition to external interference that could exacerbate the conflict or derail the settlement process. They highlighted the necessity for the withdrawal of all foreign forces and mercenaries from Libya, adhering to relevant UN resolutions. Additionally, they recognized the need to collaborate with neighboring countries to demarcate maritime borders transparently and fairly, in line with international law.
The consultations also highlighted the importance of strengthening regional and international cooperation to unify Libyan institutions, particularly in the economic and security sectors. This cooperation aims to bolster Libya's sovereignty across its territory and to combat terrorism, illegal immigration, and organized crime effectively.
Rose El Youssef magazine further noted that, at the meeting's conclusion, both sides agreed to maintain close consultation and coordination in the future, bilaterally and within regional and international forums. This agreement underscores the strong ties between Egypt and Greece and their shared commitment to fostering stability in Libya, which they view as essential for the broader stability of the Eastern Mediterranean region.