Hope of honourable way out of current crisis

Brussels, 25/01/2007 (Agence Europe) - Relations with Libya and the fate reserved for the five Bulgarian healthcare workers and Palestinian doctor imprisoned in this country, accused of having inoculated children hospitalised in Benghazi with the AIDS virus, were the focus of a hearing organised on Wednesday 24 January in Brussels by the European parliamentary delegation for relations with the Maghreb and Arab Maghreb Union (UMA). Reassuring information was given by a representative of the European Commission, Mario Fanti, who said there is the hope of a political solution to the issue that is for now blocking the normalisation of relations between the EU and Tripoli. Mr Fanti recalled the way proceedings would be carried out as presented by the Libyan authorities. There will be a further examination of the dossier by the High Court, a legal body, and after this by the Supreme Justice Council, a body of a more political nature that alone would have the authority to change the sentence if confirmed. However, according to Tripoli, this political decision cannot be taken before the final judgement is pronounced by the Supreme Court. Mr Fanti pointed out that various European authorities were putting constant pressure on the Libyan authorities that wish to conclude the matter in an acceptable manner, as they too, he says, are subject to powerful popular pressure. The emotion caused by this affair is equal to that in Europe and Bulgaria, mainly after the condemnation of the medical team. This is even more so as the events took place in Benghazi, a town whose relations with the central power are said to be quite tenuous. European diplomats have made regular visits to the prisoners now housed in better conditions. The Commission representative also recalled the offer made by the EU and its member states to provide humanitarian assistance and medical assistance in addition to the “International Benghazi Fund” set up for the occasion and chaired by the EU, and whose implementation will be effective as soon as an amicable arrangement has been found. (fb)