Erdogan Meets Head of Libya’s UN-Supported Gov’t

By Staff, Agencies

Turkey's president has met with the head of Libya's UN-recognized government, following heightened tensions between Turkey and forces loyal to a rival Libyan authority.

In a statement by his office Friday, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan reiterated his support for Libyan Prime Minister Fayez Sarraj's government in Tripoli.

He called on the forces of Khalifa Haftar to cease their attacks.

Haftar's Libyan National Army, which controls much of eastern and southern Libya, said Turkish vessels and interests are now targets, after accusing Turkey of helping rival militias. Six Turkish nationals were freed this week after Turkey threatened action.

Fighters aligned with the government in Tripoli received Turkish-made armored vehicles in May.

The statement said Erdogan and Sarraj discussed bilateral relations, developments in Libya and regional issues.