Australia pays tribute to Libyan people

Australia has paid tribute to the courage of the Libyan people during international talks with pro-democracy representatives in Paris.

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Australia has paid tribute to the courage of the Libyan people during international talks with pro-democracy representatives in Paris.

Members of Libya's National Transitional Council met with world leaders including French President Nicolas Sarkozy, British Prime Minister David Cameron, and US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, on Thursday Acting foreign minister Craig Emerson said there was a "great sense of solidarity for a new Libya".

"Australia will be involved in the reconstruction and rebuilding of Libya," he told ABC radio.

"But the immediate concern is the humanitarian one and given that the fighting hasn't stopped completely."

About 60 countries had pledged humanitarian aid through the Red Cross.

Australia will contribute $4.6 million to help combat food and water shortages, ramp up medical assistance efforts and remove explosive ordnance.

Dr Emerson said Australia would provide financial assistance to 650 Libyan students in Australia to help those left without funds because of the conflict.

"It is students such as these who, when they return home, will be invaluable to the rebuilding of Libya," he said.

Australia also will offer technical support to revive Libyan efforts to join the World Trade Organisation.


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Source: AAP

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Australia pays tribute to Libyan people | SBS News