Engaging Libya’s powerful opposition will be important in resolving the crisis in the North African country, China said on Tuesday, underscoring Beijing’s growing role as mediator and delivering another setback to dictator Muammar Qadhafi.
Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei made the remarks as Libyan rebel leader Mahmoud Jibril began a two—day visit to Beijing.
Mr. Jibril chairs the executive board of the Transitional National Council, the umbrella organization of rebel groups trying to unseat Col. Qadhafi.
China stayed on the sidelines for months after the revolt against Col. Qadhafi’s government erupted in mid—February, but has recently stepped up efforts to promote a settlement.
Mr. Hong said the council had “already become an important political power in Libya,” and that China was poised to engage with it and “other relevant parties” to help find a political solution to the crisis.
Mr. Hong said China had no agenda in the dispute, and was supporting the efforts of others, such as the African Union, in resolving it.
