Archbishop: 'Gaddafi can still determine fate of Libya'

Archbishop Giovanni Martinelli

As rebel troops appear to be closing in on the last stronghold of Gaddafi supporters, calling for them to surrender, Mgr Giovanni Innocenzo Martinelli, Apostolic Vicar of Tripoli, says he is very concerned for the people of Libya and is praying for the war to end.

"There can be no illusions about having won the war." he said. "The presence of Gaddafi can still determine the fate of Libya. The situation is very delicate and dangerous. I pray that everything will end as soon as possible".

Mgr Martinelli who is currently in Italy for health and safety reasons, said the small Catholic community of Tripoli is still very active and not in danger. He said: "Filipino nurses and doctors are still working with dedication in hospitals and among the people. Those who have fled will return as soon as the fighting has stopped."

The Archbishop says he wants to return to Libya and will do so as soon as the situation allows. "I hope the two sides will reach a solution quickly to rebuild the country and return to normal," he said.

Source: UCAN