Pranab meets Gaddafi, oil cooperation discussed

New Delhi, May 28: External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee met Libyan leader Col. Muammer Al Gaddafi last evening and discussed bilateral cooperation in various fields, particularly in the oil and petroleum sector.

The hour-long meeting at Col. Gaddafi's desert camp near the coastal town of Sirte was held in a very warm and cordial atmosphere, an official statement said here today.

After a two-day visit to Cyprus, Libya is the second stop for Mr Mukherjee, who is on a four-nation tour.

Traditional friendship between the two countries, India's support for Libya's position and principled opposition to sanctions were recalled.

Cooperation in human resource development was also discussed.

Col Gaddafi said the sky was the limit for cooperation between the two countries, and he would himself work towards further strengthening the India-Africa partnership.

On international issues, discussions focused on the need for reforms in the UN, including the UN Security Council.

Col Gaddafi reiterated that India had a right for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council.

While discussing regional issues, Mr Mukherjee briefed the Libyan leader on developments in SAARC, India-Pakistan composite dialogue, India-China relations as well as trilateral India-Russia-China dialogue.

Mr Mukherjee handed over a letter from Prime Minister Manmohan Singh inviting Col Gaddafi to visit India. The Libyan leader said he looked forward to visiting India.

UNI