Cairo: Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi has reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to supporting all initiatives and efforts aimed at resolving the ongoing Libyan crisis, with a particular focus on holding presidential and parliamentary elections simultaneously. President El-Sisi underscored Egypt’s dedication to maintaining Libya’s sovereignty, stability, unity, and territorial integrity, while also calling for the withdrawal of all foreign forces and mercenaries from the country.
According to Libyan News Agency, this announcement was made in a press statement by Ambassador Mohamed El-Shenawy, the official spokesperson for the Egyptian Presidency, following a meeting held in Cairo between President El-Sisi and Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar, the Commander-in-Chief of the Libyan National Army. The meeting was also attended by Major General Hassan Rashad, Director of General Intelligence, Lieutenant General Saddam Khalifa, Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Libyan National Army, and Lieutenant General Khaled Khalifa, Chief of the General Staff of the Libyan National Army.
The spokesperson highlighted that President El-Sisi reiterated Egypt’s support for initiatives aimed at addressing the Libyan crisis, especially those that involve simultaneous elections. He stated that Egypt remains committed to providing comprehensive support to the Libyan army and national institutions, emphasizing the longstanding and fraternal ties between the two nations. Discussions also encompassed the demarcation of maritime borders, emphasizing the importance of cooperation to serve mutual interests in line with international law.
Field Marshal Haftar expressed appreciation for Egypt and President El-Sisi’s significant role in restoring security and stability to Libya. He acknowledged the consistent support extended to the Libyan people and emphasized the importance of continued coordination with President El-Sisi on various developments affecting Libya and the region.
Ambassador El-Shenawy noted that the meeting also covered regional developments of interest, particularly the situation in Sudan. Both parties agreed on the need for heightened international and regional efforts to achieve a peaceful resolution that maintains Sudan’s stability and sovereignty. It was stressed that Sudan’s stability is intimately linked to the national security of both Egypt and Libya.