Tripoli, 22 October 2013:
The North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) has agreed “to respond positively” to a recent request made by Prime Minister Ali Zeidan for advice on defence institution building in the country.
As part of the overall efforts of the international community, NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen said, the organisation would set up a small advisory team to respond to Libya’s request.
“This advisory effort will work in close coordination with and complement efforts by other international organisations and bilateral efforts by Allies,” Rasmussen said in a statement. He added that the team could also help avoid any duplication of assistance.
Reiterating comments made at the 2012 NATO summit in Chicago, Rasmussen said: “We stand ready to consider providing assistance to Libya in areas where the Alliance can add value.” NATO also welcomed efforts undertaken bilaterally by Allies to strengthen Libya’s security sector, he added. [/restrict]
