WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — Libya has been in a state of turmoil since early 2011, following the overthrow of long-time leader Muammar Gaddafi. The instability in the country has caused the emergence of two rival governments, as well as of several militant groups, such as the Daesh.
"[W]e also had an opportunity to discuss the possibilities of a new government being formed in Libya and how we can try to solidify a structure there that would prevent ISIL [Daesh] from using that territory as a future stronghold," Obama stated.
Obama said that the two leaders were both "absolutely committed to the destruction" of the Daesh, and added that France has been a key partner in the US-led coalition’s efforts against the terrorist group in Syria and Iraq.
The also discussed, Obama noted, how the two countries can deal with the influx of refugees, and how the refugee situation is "putting enormous strains on European unity and the strategic concerns that we have there."
The meeting between Obama and Hollande come on the sidelines of the fourth Nuclear Security Summit in Washington DC, which is attended by more than 50 foreign leaders.
