Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi announced on Wednesday that he and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan have reached an agreement to address Libya’s long-standing crisis. The two leaders agreed to push for simultaneous presidential and parliamentary elections in the country.

During a joint press conference in Ankara, El-Sisi emphasized the importance of removing illegal foreign forces and mercenaries from Libya and disbanding armed militias. He believes these steps are crucial for ending the division within the country and restoring security and stability.

El-Sisi also noted that Egypt and Turkey have agreed to establish consultations between their respective institutions to support political and security stability in Libya.

This visit marks El-Sisi’s first official trip to Turkey in more than 12 years, signaling a new chapter in relations between the two nations.