Italian, Libyan foreign ministers discuss strategic relations in Rome

By Dilan Pamuk

ANKARA (AA) - Italy’s foreign minister and his Libyan counterpart discussed relations between their countries at a meeting in Rome, the Italian Foreign Ministry said Wednesday.

Luigi Di Maio and Najla Al-Mangoush confirmed the strategic nature of the bilateral ties and indicated their willingness to continue strengthening the partnership.

They also reviewed the main areas of bilateral collaboration, including cooperation on migration.

Di Maio reiterated Italy's commitment to a lasting stabilization in Libya and highlighted the importance of the conclusion of the electoral process as well as the withdrawal of all foreign fighters and mercenaries from the country.

He advised all parties in Libya to ensure constructive cooperation with Stephanie Williams, the new deputy chief of the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL).

Libya has been torn by civil war since the ouster of ruler Muammar Gaddafi in 2011.

Libya is preparing to hold presidential and parliamentary elections on Dec. 24 under a UN-sponsored agreement reached by Libyan political rivals during meetings in Tunisia last year.

Libyans hope that the upcoming elections will contribute to ending an armed conflict that has plagued the oil-rich country for years.