KIEV, Sept. 1 – Ukraine has recognized the National Transition Council of Libya as the sole legitimate representative of the Libyan people.

"Recognizing the National Transitional Council as the only lawful representative of the Libyan people, Ukraine is calling on the council to continue to ensure the safety of Ukrainian citizens in Libya, including the protection of the diplomatic staff of the Ukrainian Embassy in Tripoli," the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry said in a statement issued on Thursday.

"Ukraine welcomes the completion of the active phase of military operations in Libya and is looking forward to a final cessation of the armed conflict, the restoration of stability, and the strengthening of the political process, with the ultimate goal of creating a new, prosperous, democratic state of Libya," the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry said.