Leader of Libya Moamer Kadhafi will visit the European Commission (EC) on Tuesday April 27, 2004. His visit to the EC marks the Colonel's first visit to Europe in many years, preparing the ground for a full normalization of relations between Libya and the EU.
This visit follows the remarkable progress achieved during the past few months towards the reintegration of Libya within the international community, including on the issues of weapons of mass destruction, commitment to peace and security in the region, settlement of the Lockerbie and UTA cases and the lifting of UN sanctions, as well as a clear reorientation towards a more open economy.
Libya has also announced its intention to join the Barcelona Process in full, accepting its acquis and intending to play full part in the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership. The visit will provide an opportunity for President Prodi and a number of other Commissioners to discuss with Colonel Kadhafi a wide range of issues, including the full participation of Libya in the Barcelona Process, the prospects for joint efforts towards peace and stability in the Mediterranean region, as well as EU future support to economic and political reforms in Libya, including on human rights reforms.
Other topics that will be discussed at the meeting will be prospects for cooperation on the fight against illegal immigration and on border control, fisheries, as well as the respective development efforts in Sub-Saharan Africa will also be discussed. Particular attention will also be devoted to the full settlement of the still outstanding issues between Libya and Germany, as well as to the case of the Bulgarian medical staff detained in Libya. A Council decision will be needed before Libya is accepted as full member of the Barcelona process. — (menareport.com)
© 2004 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)
