Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi reiterated to Russia’s President Vladimir Putin in a phone call on Friday the importance of ending “illegitimate foreign interference” in Libyan affairs, according to a statement by his spokesman.

During the phone call, which saw an exchange of viewpoints on Libya, El-Sisi said that such interference creates repercussions and undermines efforts to achieve security and stability in the war-torn country.

Putin stressed his country’s position on achieving a comprehensive political resolution in Libya, the statement said, adding that both leaders agreed on intensifying joint efforts focused at resolving the crisis through a comprehensive framework.

The framework, which would include all parties involved in the crisis, would support efforts aimed at combating terrorism and extremist groups and meeting the aspirations of the Libyan people.

El-Sisi and Putin also discussed developments in the Gulf region, where they stressed the importance of pacification and non-escalation to preserve the Gulf’s security and safety.
The call is part of intensive communications by Egypt with international partners on ongoing developments in Libya.

In the past weeks, tensions have continued to mount in the Mediterranean region following controversial accords signed between Ankara and Libya's Government of National Accord, led by Prime Minister Fayez Al-Sarraj, in end 2019. 

Egypt has reiterated its firm support of the eastern-based Libyan National Army and its commander Khalifa Haftar, stressing its rejection of any form of intervention in Libya’s domestic affairs.