The Libyan Foreign Minister Najla Al-Mangoush reiterated in a meeting with US ambassador Richard Norland on Thursday the need to ease visa requirements for Libyans wishing to travel to the US, especially students.

Al-Mangoush renewed, according to her media office, the need for more cooperation between the two countries as Norland stressed his country's support for peace and stability efforts in Libya as well as the efforts to hold presidential and parliamentary elections as soon as possible.

The US embassy said Norland had time to discuss with Al-Mangoush practical issues in bilateral relationship, such as visa reciprocity, but especially the importance of maintaining security in light of recent clashes that sadly left 16 dead.

"The recent violence can still be overcome if Libyan leaders work together for the benefit of the country. Free and fair elections are the only means to establishing a national government with legitimacy. Libyans deserve better than the violence that occurred in Tripoli or Misrata in recent days. We strongly urge all leaders to avoid escalatory steps, and support agreement on holding presidential and parliamentary elections." Norland said.