Cameron invites Libyan rebels to open London office

LONDON: British Prime Minister David Cameron on Thursday invited the Libyan rebel council to open an office in London, after talks with its leader Mustafa Abdul Jalil.

"The government is today inviting the council to establish a formal office here in London," Cameron said, referring to the National Transitional Council. If established, it would be the first such office in Europe.

The prime minister also said Britain was boosting its diplomatic team in the rebel-controlled city of Benghazi, including with a new special representative to the council.

In addition, "we are now completing plans to transfer several million pounds (dollars) of equipment to the police in Benghazi. We will also provide new support to improve the council's public broadcasting capacities," Cameron said.

Addressing Jalil, he said: "Mr Chairman, these steps signal our very clear intent to work with you and your colleagues to ensure that Libya has a safe and stable future, free from the tyranny of the Kadhafi regime." (AFP)