ADDS REMARKS BY TURKISH FOREIGN MINISTER ON HIS VISIT; CHANGES DECK
By Esra Tekin and Muhammed Semiz and Muhammet Tarhan
ISTANBUL (AA) — Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan met Wednesday with Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh, the prime minister of the Government of National Unity of Libya, in the North African country's capital Tripoli.
Dbeibeh expressed his appreciation for Ankara's "supportive position towards stability in Libya and its role in endorsing international efforts for holding elections," the Turkish Foreign Ministry told reporters.
Speaking to journalists during the visit, Fidan highlighted the "deep-rooted fraternal relationship" between Türkiye and Libya as well as the historical ties between the two nations.
He also noted that he had the opportunity to discuss a wide range of topics with Dbeibeh during the visit.
"I reiterated Türkiye's support for the integrity, stability and prosperity of Libya. We discussed current issues and possible areas of cooperation between the two countries," Fidan said.
The meeting addressed cooperation between the two nations and included discussions on political and economic matters, according to a separate statement from the Hakomitna platform affiliated with the Libyan government.
It added that Fidan’s visit primarily focused on issues of mutual importance, including "support for international efforts regarding the situation in Gaza and holding elections in Libya."
"We had the opportunity to review what Türkiye and Libya can do together, especially regarding conflicts, troubles and civil wars in some southern African regions. We discussed cooperation in combating terrorism, especially in dealing with migration and smuggling issues," Fidan added.
Fidan said that he and Dbeibeh had mutually confirmed their views on resuming flights between the two countries by Türkiye's flag carrier Turkish Airlines.
He also said their discussions, ranging from security to the economy, education and visa issues, were completed in an efficient and comprehensive manner.
He noted that there would be further meetings throughout the day, involving not only the president but also other officials.
Fidan also held a meeting with Mohamed Al-Menfi, the head of the Presidential Council of Libya, after talks with Mohammed Muftah Takala, the president of Libya's High State Council.
The Turkish diplomat also interacted with Abdullah Al-Lafi, the deputy head of the Presidential Council, and Central Bank Governor Saddek El Kaber at the Turkish Embassy.
Earlier, Fidan visited the Turkish Armed Forces' Libya Task Command.