Portugal recognises Libya’s rebel NTC

Portugal became the latest country to recognise Libya’s rebel-led National Transitional Council, the Portuguese foreign ministry said on Friday.

Portugal recognises the NTC as “the legitimate governing authority of Libya,” a ministry statement said.

“This decision reflects our recognition of the role the NTC is playing in leading the transition process in Libya”, it said, adding that Portugal reiterates “calls for sovereignty, independence, integrity and unity for Libya and the aspirations of its people to construct a free and democratic society”.

Portugal has been a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council since January 1 and holds the presidency of the UN Security Council Sanctions Committee, which pursues sanctions against Libya.

More than 30 Western and Arab nations have now officially recognised the NTC, which continues to battle Colonel Moamer Kadafi’s regime.