Canada Recognizes Libya's Rebel Council

Recognition should strengthen ties between Canada and Libya's rebel movement as the war continues into its fourth month.

The Canadian government has now recognized the Transitional National Council, the diplomatic arm of the Libyan rebel movement, as the “legitimate representative” of the citizens of the North African country. Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird announced the move as the House of Commons sat for a debate on whether to extend Canada's involvement in the NATO-led air campaign seeking to oust Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi from power. While short of recognizing the TNC as the legitimate government of Libya, recognizing the Benghazi-based council as the representative gives it more diplomatic heft in international talks. Baird also said Canada would provide another $2 million in humanitarian aid to the rebels, now in their fourth month of fighting Gadhafi forces.