LOC23:30
20:30 GMT
WASHINGTON, Sept 12 (KUNA) -- The United States expressed on Monday its
concerns about reports of arbitrary detention of Sub-Saharan African refugees
and migrants in Libya.
"The United States is deeply concerned about reports of arbitrary detention
and abuse of sub-Saharan African migrants and refugees. We also understand
that some Libyans are also being victimized based on the color of their skin",
said State Department spokesperson Victoria Nuland in a statement.
"Nobody should be detained or harassed due to the color of their skin or
their nationality, and measures must be taken to protect individuals from acts
of violence", she added.
Nuland noted that the US administration "welcomed the Transitional National
Council's (TNC) assurances of their commitment to safeguard the well-being of
individuals throughout Libya and the TNC leadership's cooperation with those
international agencies engaged in identifying and assisting those at risk
and/or detained, including the Office of the UN High Commissioner for
Refugees, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and the International
Organization for Migration. We look forward to prompt implementation of these
measures".
"The United States is working with its international partners to facilitate
safe passage out of Libya for those foreign nationals, including sub-Saharan
African migrants, who wish to depart for their own safety", she concluded.
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KUNA 122330 Sep 11NNNN