ATHENS — An Egyptian offer to mediate for peace in civil-war-torn Libya was supported by Greece which is upset Libya signed a deal with Turkey dividing the seas between them and claiming waters off Greek islands.

"We welcome Egypt's new initiative to resolve the Libyan Gordian knot," the Ministry said as Greece has tried to rally international backing against the maritime deal under which Turkey said it would drill for energy off Crete.

"(The initiative) highlights the basic principles of the international community as enshrined in UN Security Council resolutions and the Berlin Conclusions, namely respect for the unity, integrity and independence of Libya,” the ministry said.

Turkey backs a United Nations-recognized government in one part of the country while Greece supports rebels in Tripoli as Libya's war threatens to further complicate the geopolitical landscape in the region.

"We fully share its high priorities, such as immediate ceasefire, the withdrawal of all foreign forces and mercenaries, the disarmament of paramilitary groups and the return of all Libyan components to a process of inclusive dialogue for a comprehensive political solution,” the Greek ministry statement said.

"Restoration of peace can only be achieved by the Libyans themselves. While the prolongation of the crisis serves those third parties who are interfering in its internal affairs with ulterior motives, peace will benefit not only the Libyans, but also the stability and prosperity of the entire Eastern Mediterranean,” it also added.