Italian Foreign Minister, Antonio Tajani and his Egyptian counterpart, Sameh Shoukry discussed the latest developments in Libya during a meeting on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
During the meeting on Wednesday, the two exchanged views and perspectives on several regional and international issues of interest, with a particular focus on Libya.
The Egyptian Foreign Ministry stated that Shoukry “affirmed the importance of the completion of the work of Libya‘s 6+6 Joint Committee. This is to pave the way for free, fair, and simultaneous presidential and parliamentary elections.”
Last month, Shoukry and Tajani held talks on the situation in Libya and the migration problem. Shoukry received a phone call from Tajani to coordinate on various bilateral and regional issues.
The ministers discussed ways to enhance bilateral relations in economic and investment fields, as well as optimizing the significant potential available in both countries.
They also addressed the common situations and challenges in the Mediterranean region, particularly the issue of irregular migration across the Mediterranean.
Shoukry outlined his assessment of the developments concerning the crisis in Niger, and ways to resolve it through diplomatic means. All the while preserving the security and stability of Niger, and the region.
The discussions also touched on the situation in Libya, as the Egyptian FM informed his Italian counterpart of Egypt’s vision regarding the political and security developments. As well as the ways to support Libyan tracks and solutions, that ensure the holding of Parliamentary and Presidential elections at the earliest opportunity.
The two top diplomats agreed to continue close consultations during the upcoming period and to hold a meeting on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York in September.
In a separate context, Tajani has defended the “Mattie Plan,” saying it is an “extremely useful tool and means to enhance relations between Italy and Africa.”
Concerns have been raised by observers regarding the suspicious nature of Italy’s Mattie Plan. Some perceive it as an attempt to relocate migrants to Libya, and other African countries. However, all Libyan stakeholders have staunchly rejected this proposal.