US seeks to boost aid to Libya rebel council

Libya rebels wave U.S. flag AFP image

AFP

WASHINGTON (AFP) – The United States is working with international partners on ways to continue financing the Libyan National Transitional Council as rebel forces take control of Tripoli, a US Treasury official said Monday.

But Washington continues to keep frozen about $37 billion in assets of the regime of strongman Moamer Kadhafi and others sanctioned by the Treasury as it addresses legal issues involved in letting the NTC make use of them.

“Last month’s recognition of the (NTC) as the legitimate governing authority for Libya helped pave the way towards making some of the frozen assets in the United States available to the (NTC),” said the official, who asked to remain anonymous.

“Nonetheless, there remain legal issues that must be addressed, and we will continue to consult with the (NTC) and our international partners on the most effective and appropriate method of making additional significant financial assistance available.”

“Sanctions against the Kadhafi regime remain in place. All property and interests in property of the Kadhafi regime and others sanctioned by Treasury remain blocked,” the official said.

© AFP — Published at Activist Post with license