...Self-proclaimed Field Marshal, served in the Libyan army under Muammar Qadaffy, and took part in the coup that brought Qadaffy to power in 1969. He became a prisoner of war in Chad in 1987. While held prisoner, he and his fellow officers formed a group hoping to overthrow Qadaffy, so it's kind of hard to describe him as a Qadaffy holdover. He was released around 1990 in a deal with the United States government and spent nearly two decades in the United States, gaining US citizenship. In 1993, while living in the United States, he was convicted in absentia of crimes against the Jamahiriya and sentenced to death. Haftar held a senior position in the anti-Qadaffy forces in the 2011 Libyan Civil War. In 2014 he was commander of the Libyan Army when the General National Congress (GNC) refused to give up power in accordance with its term of office. Haftar launched a campaign against the GNC and its Islamic fundamentalist allies. His campaign allowed elections to take place to replace the GNC, but then developed into a civil war. Guess you can't win them all. Actually, he is, but slowly.... They held a meeting attended by the Head of the Egyptian General Intelligence, Major General Abbas Kamel.
Spokesman for the Egyptian Presidency, Bassam Radi said that they discussed the latest developments in Libya. As well as the distinguished relationship between the two neighbours.
The meeting confirmed that the stability of Libya at the political and security levels, is a part of Egypt’s national security.
President El-Sisi welcomed the Libyan leaders, and praised their efforts to restore security and stability, and preserve illusory sovereignty and unity.
He affirmed that Egypt will continue to coordinate with all Libyan parties during the coming period. As well as confirming Egypt’s support to ensure the unity and cohesion of Libya’s national institutions, and that the December general elections take place as scheduled.
The President reiterated his rejection of foreign interference in the country, which "aims to implement its own agendas at the expense of the Libyan people." He stressed the importance of withdrawing all foreign forces and mercenaries from Libyan territory.
In turn, the two Libyan officials expressed their appreciation for Egypt’s role in Libya. They praised the Egyptian contribution to the unification of the LNA, and welcomed Egyptian expertise in benefitting Libya.
Haftar and Saleh confirmed their keenness to strengthen the security track, by having all foreign forces withdraw from Libya. This would "enable security institutions to carry out their responsibilities, and contribute to restoring security and stability throughout the country.