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Trkiye stressed that the normalization of relations with Egypt would reflect positively on the situation in Libya, the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, and the region in general.

Spokesman for the Turkish presidency Ibrahim Kalin said in a televised interview that Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglus recent visit to Egypt was "very important and productive."

Ankara believes that improving relations with Egypt will benefit many nations, he continued.

"We clearly believe that the normalization of Trkiye-Egypt relations is vital for the two countries and the region's dynamics. It is also beneficial for Libya and Palestine. Moreover, it is in the interest of the whole region in the fight against terrorism," he said.

The situation in neighboring Libya is one of the most important files for Egypt in its talks with Trkiye. Cairo has repeatedly expressed its rejection of the deployment of Turkish troops in Libya and its sending of thousands of Syrian mercenaries there.

Diplomatic sources told Asharq Al-Awsat that Libya is the file that will have the greatest impact on the normalization of relations.

The sources believed Trkiye would take steps to ease Egyptian concerns, especially as it wants to make rapid progress in the gas file in the eastern Mediterranean and sign an agreement to demarcate the maritime borders.

Ankara aims to establish a foothold in the region, where it has become isolated, despite the memorandum of understanding on maritime jurisdiction it signed with the former Government of National Accord in 2019.

Upon returning from Cairo, Cavusoglu said Egypt was uncomfortable with Trkiye's presence in Libya.

"Our presence there does not pose a threat to Egypt. And this presence came at the invitation of the legitimate government at that time and continued based on the desire of subsequent governments," he stated.

Cavusoglu added that Ankara and Cairo agreed to continue close consultation and cooperation on Libya.

Regarding the maritime agreement signed with the GNA, Cavusoglu asserted it was not against Egypt's interests, just as Egypt's deal with Greece was not against Trkiye.

Regarding Egypt's position on the agreement to explore energy resources in the eastern Mediterranean, Cavusoglu remarked that it was not a problem.

"Every country concludes hydrocarbon agreements with another. Egypt is currently objecting to this agreement under the pretext that the current government in Libya cannot sign agreements because its mandate has ended."

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Trkiye: Normalization of Ties with Egypt Will Reflect Positively on ... - Asharq Al-awsat - English