Today, March 7, 2012 , at the White House ,The Libyan Prime Minister Mr. ElKeib

held met with U.S. President Barack Obama

This morning President Obama welcomed Libyan Prime Minister Abdurrahim ElKeib to the White House—the first of several meetings the Prime Minister will hold with U.S. officials this week. During the meeting the President pledged continued support to the Libyan people and noted the contributions made by American service members and civilians to securing Libya’s freedom. The President applauded the Prime Minister for his leadership during Libya’s democratic transition and his government’s efforts to rebuild the country. The President encouraged the Prime Minister to continue plans to hold national elections in June and stressed the importance of transparency and engagement with Libya’s newly energized civil society as the government develops accountable institutions. The leaders also discussed a range of security issues and increased cooperation on border management, weapons security, and regional counterterrorism concerns. The President said he looks forward to a close partnership between the United States and Libya going forward.