Brazil's FM calls for int'l aid to rebuild Libya

Brazilian Foreign Minister Antonio Patriota on Friday called for aid from the international community to help rebuild and stabilize Libya. "The UN needs to fully take their responsibility in the establishment of a timetable for Libya's democratic process by bringing elections, a constitution and political stability to the country," Patriota said. He said the Brazilian government is willing to provide assistance in several areas, including clearance of landmines in the North African country, some of them left over from World War II. "We will collaborate so that Libya can have a future of stability, progress, development and democracy," he said. Patriota, who expressed confidence in swift reconstruction in Libya, promised the return to Libya of the Brazilian companies which operated in the oil-rich country before conflicts began in February. Their business activities included urban sanitation, construction, and infrastructure, he said