From Anders Fogh Rasmussen, NATO: The North Atlantic Council has decided today to extend the current mandate of Operation Unified Protector, while keeping the situation under regular review. Together with our partners, NATO has been remarkably successful in fulfilling the mandate of the United Nations. But while threats to civilians persist, we will continue to protect them under the mandate confirmed unanimously in United Nations Security Council Resolution 2009, and at the request of the National Transition Council.
We are determined to continue our mission for as long as necessary, but ready to terminate the operation as soon as possible. While the technical rollover is for up to 90 days, the review will allow us to end our tasks at any time. We will do this in coordination with the United Nations, taking into account United Nations Security Council Resolution 2009, and in line with the will of the Libyan authorities.
This decision sends a clear message to the Libyan people. We will be there for as long as necessary, but not a day longer, while you take your future in your hands to ensure a safe transition to the new Libya. (photo: Getty)
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