DFA recalls envoy to Libya

MANILA, Philippines -  Philippine Ambassador to Libya Alejandrino Vicente is being recalled to Manila and will be replaced by another diplomat, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said yesterday.

The move was made following the Philippine government’s recognition of the new transitional government on Aug. 30, 2011.

DFA spokesman Raul Hernandez said Vicente was accredited to the former government.

“His recall should not affect the delivery of consular service and assistance to the remaining Filipinos,” Hernandez said.

He added that a skeletal force will remain in the embassy to continue assisting Filipinos.

“The Philippine government will be sending a new diplomat to be accredited to the transitional government very soon,” he said.

There are around 2,000 Filipinos, mostly medical workers, who chose to stay in Libya for personal and professional reasons.

The DFA announced last Aug. 30 that the Philippines officially recognized the National Transitional Council as the legitimate representative of Libya.

“The Philippines recognizes the National Transitional Council as the legitimate representative of the Libyan people during this period of transition in the country and hopes that it will lead the country towards peace and stability,” according to the Philippine statement on Libya.

The Philippines and Libya share a history of excellent relations based on friendship, understanding, and mutual respect.

The Philippines said it is looking forward to working with the Libyan people and hopes to be able to contribute to the rebuilding of the new Libya in the form of Filipino professionals in the construction, energy and medical fields.

“The Philippine government reiterates its thanks and appreciation to the Libyan people for keeping Filipinos in Libya safe throughout the conflict,” the statement said.

The Philippines welcomed last Aug. 24 the imminent resolution of the conflict in Libya.

The DFA said the Philippines supports a peaceful transition in Libya in order for normalcy to return to this country, and looks forward to working with the Libyan people in pursuing peace and stability.