Resolving the Libyan crisis is essential to the fight against terrorist groups in Africa, Chadian President Idriss Déby said during the opening of the Aswan Forum for Sustainable Peace and Development, taking place in Aswan, Upper Egypt, on 11-12 December.

Déby pointed out that the solution to the Libya crisis is in the hands of the Libyans themselves and that Libya must overcome its challenges and reach agreement to catch up with efforts to develop Africa.

"The current efforts are not sufficient to restore peace in Africa," he added.

"Coordination between African leaders against the [terrorist] acts taking place in the Sahel is needed," Déby added, stressing the importance of the recognition of the affected countries of their reality and needs.

"We must support their security efforts," he added.

The Chadian president also pointed out to the consequences of climate change that Africa and Sahel countries face, which include desertification, decrease in river waters and rainfall, drought, elevated temperatures, and land degradation.

He said these factors may decrease livestock raising and increase poverty, stressing the importance of encountering these environmental threats.

The Chadian president concluded his speech saying "Africa, which we aspire to, needs peace, security and sustainable development to become an integrated continent."