Sudan and Libya tackle border security

Sudan's Foreign Minister Ali Ahmed Karti has unveiled Sudanese-Libyan efforts to form a joint military force to control borders between the two countries. The revelation came during Karti’s visit to Libya this week, reportedly to discuss strengthening relations between Tripoli and Khartoum. “We are looking to establish a joint military force to maintain security along the large border between Sudan and Libya,” the Sudanese Foreign Minister said. Karti announced his country's commitment to eliminate militants, arms smugglers and drug dealers in vast desert areas along the border. Another meeting between Sudanese, Chadian and Central African leaders was also held on Tuesday to consolidate an existing tripartite security force. The force’s commander, Colonel Tarek Orabi Abul Rahman, claimed troops had meanwhile taken full control of the three countries' borders following a comprehensive combing operation. The situation between the three countries was now stable, he added. Former major of West Darfur and military expert, Major General Suleiman Abdullah Adam, told Arabstoday the formation of joint forces in the region would contribute to much-needed security and stability.