Egypt, Libya leaders discuss Libya crisis and Sudan conflict in Cairo

CAIRO

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi held talks on Monday with Libyan National Army commander Khalifa Haftar, focusing on ending the Libyan crisis and addressing the volatile situation in Sudan, the Egyptian presidency said.

Sisi, accompanied by Egypt’s intelligence chief Major General Hassan Rashad, met Haftar along with Libyan Chief of Staff General Khaled Khalifa Haftar and Deputy Commander General Saddam Khalifa Haftar.

The president reaffirmed Egypt’s full support for Libya’s sovereignty, stability and territorial integrity, highlighting the Libyan army’s central role in maintaining security. He called for the removal of all foreign forces and mercenaries from Libya and backed initiatives aimed at holding presidential and parliamentary elections concurrently.

Haftar thanked Egypt and Sisi personally for their role in supporting Libya’s security and stability and expressed his commitment to continued coordination on Libyan and regional developments.

Libya remains divided nearly 15 years after the fall of Muammar Gaddafi, with two competing administrations: the internationally-recognised Government of National Unity in Tripoli and a House of Representatives-backed government in Benghazi.

The two leaders also discussed the conflict in Sudan, agreeing on the need for stronger international and regional efforts to secure a peaceful resolution. They emphasised that Sudan’s stability is directly tied to the security of both Egypt and Libya.

Sudan has been in turmoil since April 15, 2023, with fighting between the army and the Rapid Support Forces leaving thousands dead and millions displaced. Humanitarian and ceasefire efforts have faced persistent challenges.