The newly elected president of Libya’s High State Council, Mohammed Takal, held talks with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan in Ankara on Wednesday during Takal’s inaugural overseas visit in his new post.
According to a statement from the council, the two officials discussed regional and domestic political situations, including latest developments in Libya and the country’s elections agenda.
They also explored avenues for enhancing cooperation between Libya and Turkey in service of both nations’ interests, the council said.
Turkey has emerged as a staunch backer of Libya’s Tripoli-based Government of National Unity, led by Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh. Ankara’s support includes maintaining military bases in western Libya to train and assist government forces.
Takal’s visit came just weeks after he was voted council president, replacing long-time leader Khaled al-Mishri.
The talks with Fidan offered an opportunity to confer on topics key to ties between Ankara and Tripoli. Turkey also maintains a naval facility in Khoms, Takal’s hometown.