NTC called for NATO to extend its mission in Libya until the end of the year

The head of Libya's transitional authorities has called for Nato to extend its mission in Libya until the end of the year.

National Transitional Council (NTC) Chairman Mustafa Abdel Jalil said the extension was needed to help trying to control surplus weapons and to deal with Gaddafi loyalists. Nato has delayed a making a formal decision on when to end its mission. It had made a preliminary decision to end operations on 31 October. Diplomats had been expected to confirm that date on Wednesday.

"We hope (Nato) will continue its campaign until at least the end of this year to serve us and neighbouring countries," Mr Jalil told a gathering in Qatar of states that have supported the NTC's military campaign. He said his appeal was aimed at "ensuring that no arms are infiltrated into those countries and to ensure the security of Libyans from some remnants of [[ex-leader Col Muammar] Gaddafi's forces who have fled to nearby countries".

Mr Jalil added that the NTC wanted help "developing Libya's defence and security systems". Nato, which has been operating in Libya since March under a UN mandate to protect civilians, said it would now make a formal decision on the length of its mission on Friday.  

"As agreed, NATO continues to monitor the situation on the ground, and retains the capability to respond to any threats to civilians," said Nato spokeswoman Carmen Romero. "The situation remains calm as the NTC continues to establish its authority." 

Source: BBC