During his visit to Libya, Minister for International Security Strategy in the British Ministry of Defence, Dr Andrew Murrison, today marked Remembrance Day at the Commonwealth Cemetery in Tripoli.
Remembrance Day is an annual day of reflection to remember those who fought and died during the First and Second World Wars, as well as those who have lost their lives in more recent conflicts. Speaking in Tripoli, Dr Murrison said:
“It is particularly poignant to be marking Remembrance Day in Libya. In the Second World War Libyans stood side by side with British and Commonwealth Armed Forces in the fight against Fascism and dictatorship. The city of Tobruk will forever be remembered by Commonwealth soldiers who fought in the North Africa Campaign. We are here today to reflect and give thanks to all who lost their lives – British, Libyans and others.
Today’s service was also an opportunity to remember Libyans who died in the recent conflict. They too have paid a heavy price for freedom. I am proud that the British Government stood should to should with Libya during the revolution and am in Tripoli today to reiterate our commitment to Libya’s ongoing transition to democracy. I will be meeting Ministers and the Chief of Staff to discuss how the UK can further its current support to the Libyan Armed Forces to help them build a professional and accountable military, able to protect its citizens and respect their human rights.”
(Source: UK FCO)