Panama acknowledged on last week that leaders of the National Transitional Council (NTC) of Libya as "the legitimate representatives of the people of Libya," the country's government announced. The NTC is a political body formed to represent the rebels in Libya. Panama becomes the first Latin American country to recognize the anti-Libya government forces.
"The Panamanian people support the efforts of the NTC and all those struggling for freedom and peace on behalf of the Libyan people," said Panama's President Ricardo Martinelli.
The decision to recognize the NTC as the legitimate representatives of the people of Libya was made by Martinelli after receiving in Panama City two members of the Libya opposition.
Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi has faced an armed rebellion since February.
To comment, write a letter to the editor to letters@ticotimes.net. Please make sure to include your full name and location. Letters must be 500 words or fewer. Submissions should be original.