Canada will extend formal recognition to Libyan rebels as MPs extend mission
Posted Jun 14, 2011 07:20:09 PM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Parliament has formally extended Canada’s military mission in Libya to the end of September as Ottawa endorsed the country’s rebels as the true representatives of its people.
By an overwhelming 294-1 margin, MPs approved the extension Tuesday evening after an exhaustive day-long debate on Canada’s involvement in the NATO-led, United Nations-sanctioned mission to protect civilians from dictator Moammar Gadhafi.
Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird’s kicked off the debate by announcing a significant policy shift _ recognizing the National Transitional Council of Libya, the key rebel organization fighting Gadhafi.
He also announced additional aid funds to assist victims of sexual violence.
Canada joins France, Spain, Italy, Germany, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates in formally recognizing the council.
In March, the House of Commons unanimously approved a three-month commitment of seven fighter jets, a warship, patrol planes and aerial tankers to help enforce a no-fly zone and arm’s embargo on Libya.
