Clinton: TNC is Legitimate Governing Body

The Transitional National Council of Libya was recognized by the United States on July 15 at a contact group meeting in Istanbul Turkey. US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton announced her government’s decision.

"Until an interim authority is in place, the United States will recognize the TNC as the legitimate governing authority for Libya and we will deal with it on that basis. In contrast the United States views the Qaddafi regime as no longer having legitimate authority in Libya. We still have to work through various legal issues but we expect this step on recognition will enable the TNC to access additional sources of funding."

"We will be consulting with the TNC and our international partners in the most effective and appropriate method of doing this. In the meantime we are pleased that our partners have contributed money to the temporary financial mechanism or they have provided direct financial support to the TNC."

In addition, France’s foreign minister Alain Juppe said his country would donate 250 million US dollars to the TNC from the funds frozen by the United Nations in a bid to quell Libyan leader Muammer Qaddafi’s control on government assets.

"First of all a clear announcement by Qaddafi of his intention to relinquish power and especially his military responsibilities, then a genuine ceasefire under the control of the United Nations and I think with the help of the African Union; third, a national convention."

Speakers:

Hillary Clinton - US Secretary of State
Alain Juppe - French Foreign Minister