The Commander of the US Military Command in Africa (AFRICOM) General Stephen Townsend has reaffirmed support for the US diplomatic effort to make sure the presidential and parliamentary elections take place next December, as well as the UN's efforts to achieve a political settlement and withdraw all foreign forces from Libya.

During his visit to Tripoli, Townsend reviewed with the Head of the Presidential Council (PC) Muhammad Menfi, in his capacity as the supreme commander of the Libyan army, aspects of joint security and military cooperation between Tripoli and Washington.

According to the PC media office, the meeting, joined by US Ambassador Richard Norland, discussed the withdrawal of mercenaries and foreign forces from Libya and the steps observed in this direction.

They also discussed efforts to combat terrorism, especially in the southern region, and establishing security in areas adjacent to the Libyan borders in the south.