Canada denies re-opening of its embassy in Tripoli

The Canadian Department of Foreign Affairs denied on Sunday news claiming that Canada has re-opened its embassy in Tripoli.

In a press release, the department reiterated its call for its nationals to leave Libya as soon as possible.

Canadians living in Libya have to immediately contact Canadian Embassy in Tunisia in emergency cases, the statement added.

On July 29, 2014, Canada closed its embassy in Tripoli due to instability in the Libyan capital.

Libya plunged into chaos following the 2011 uprising against Muammar Gaddafi. The ouster of Gaddafi gave rise to a patchwork of heavily-armed militias and deep political divisions.

The country has been witnessing numerous clashes between government forces and rival militia groups, which refuse to lay down arms.

Mr Hague also held talks with National Transitional Council head Mustafa Abdel Jalil, offering a package of support and raising claims of prisoner abuse.

The UK closed its embassy in February, as rebels fought pro-Gaddafi forces. Residents angry at Nato air strikes set the embassy building alight in May.

The Libyan ambassador in London was ordered to leave the UK on 1 May following the attack.

A small team of diplomats arrived in Tripoli at the end of August after National Transitional Council fighters seized the city from pro-Gaddafi troops.

Source: MENA