Japanese embassy in Libya to reopen soon

The Japanese government will reopen its embassy in Libya on Monday next week. This is the first step in its efforts to help rebuild the country.

The government made the decision to reopen the embassy in Tripoli as the situation is stabilizing after the death of former leader Muammar al-Qadhafi.

On October 23rd Libya's National Transitional Council declared the liberation of the country after more than 4 decades of dictatorship under Qadhafi.

The Japanese embassy closed in February when security deteriorated due to nationwide anti-Qadhafi demonstrations. It temporarily moved the staff to the embassy in Egypt.

On the day when the embassy reopens, Foreign Minister Koichiro Gemba will issue a statement saying that Japan will accelerate its efforts to help Libya democratize.

The National Transitional Council says it plans to form a provisional government within 30 days, and to hold elections within 8 months.

Friday, October 28, 2011 06:47 +0900 (JST)