Both countries have seen sharp falls in the value of goods exported to Libya so far this year.

Turkish exports to Libya remained steady in the second quarter of the year, despite growing security problems.

Owing to the deteriorating security situation, Egyptian authorities say they plan to stop trucks from entering Libya via the Mssad border and will also restrict passenger traffic.

Caretaker prime minister Abdullah al-Thanay says his government will do "all it can to protect Turkish citizens and companies" in Libya.

The commercial port at Sirte, which closed in May after repeated threats and attacks against its workers by armed men, has yet to reopen.

A spokesman for Khalifa Haftar has called on nationals from both countries to leave eastern Libya, accusing both countries of supporting "terrorist" groups.

Gunmen are reportedly holding 80 Egyptian trucks and keeping their drivers hostage to demand the release of a Libyan national in Egypt.

Trading has reportedly resumed at the Msaad border with Egypt after a temporary closure.

The Brazilian ambassador in Tripoli said he hopes trade between the two countries can top $1bn (LD1.3bn) this year.

The two countries are the latest to advise their citizens against travel to Libya, while Turkish Airlines has cancelled flights to Benghazi.

Turkish exports to Libya in the first three months of 2014 were flat against the previous quarter, but down slightly on the same period in 2013.

Libya and Egypt have reportedly agreed to restart trade through the Msaad border, which is subject to frequent closure and disruption.