Al-Sisi calls for unified efforts to hold elections in Libya, urges withdrawal of foreign forces
The talks, attended by Egypt's General Intelligence Service chief Hassan Rashad and Saleh's political adviser Hamid Al-Safi, focused on the latest developments in Libya and ongoing efforts to reach a comprehensive political settlement.
Presidential spokesperson Mohamed El-Shennawy stated that President Al-Sisi emphasised Egypt's continued coordination with all Libyan stakeholders and international partners to push for an inclusive political resolution. He underscored the importance of holding simultaneous presidential and parliamentary elections as a foundation for long-term stability.
Al-Sisi reiterated that Libya's security is intrinsically linked to Egypt's own national security, stressing the urgent need for the withdrawal of all foreign forces and mercenaries from Libyan territory to facilitate the restoration of state institutions.
He also expressed Egypt's readiness to contribute to Libya's reconstruction efforts, offering to share its developmental expertise and experience in state-building.
Speaker Saleh praised Egypt's historic role in supporting Libya's national institutions, describing Cairo's position as a 'cornerstone' for advancing the political process and restoring stability. He welcomed Egypt's continued engagement in helping to prepare for national elections.
The meeting with Saleh came shortly after President Al-Sisi held separate talks in the coastal city of El Alamein with Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar, commander of the Libyan National Army (LNA).
During that meeting, Al-Sisi reaffirmed Egypt's commitment to preserving Libya's territorial integrity and countering external interference. He stressed the need to develop a unified political roadmap that enables synchronised national elections.
Haftar, in turn, expressed his appreciation for Egypt's pivotal role in supporting Libyan security and stability, commending Cairo's longstanding efforts since the onset of the crisis.
Libya remains politically fractured, with rival governments and military forces vying for control in the east and west of the country. Despite sustained international calls for unification, long-delayed presidential and parliamentary elections have yet to be held.
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