Philippines recognizes Libya interim government
MANILA, Philippines—The Philippines said it recognizes the interim government of Libya, the Department of Foreign Affairs said Tuesday.
“The Philippines recognizes the National Transitional Council as the legitimate representative of the Libyan people during this period of transition in the country and hopes that it will lead the country towards peace and stability,” the Department of Foreign Affairs said.
The DFA said the Philippines and Libya “share a history of excellent relations.”
“The Philippines looks forward to working with the Libyan people in sustaining and enhancing this relationship,” it said in a statement.
“The Philippines hopes to be able to contribute to the rebuilding of the new Libya in the form of Filipino professionals in the construction, energy and medical fields,” the DFA said.
At the same time, Manila reiterated its “thanks and appreciation to the Libyan people for keeping Filipinos in Libya safe throughout the conflict.”
The Philippines has been cautious about shifting its recognition to the rebels because of the presence of Filipino workers in Libya. About 14,000 Filipinos were evacuated from the country in March, shortly after the rebellion began in mid-February, but some 2,000 have remained there. With The Associated Press