TRIPOLI — The European Union has condemned the recent assassinations and bomb attacks in Libya's second largest city. The High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the European Commission, Catherine Ashton, expressed her concern about the recent events. Condemning the murder of Benghazi political activist Abdulsalam Musmari, she extended her condolences to his family and friends. She said the EU trusted that the Libyan authorities would ensure that the perpetrators of recent acts of violence would be brought to justice. She also called upon all Libyans to to support the efforts that the democratically-elected government was making. “The EU remains a firm friend to Libya and steadfast in its readiness to stand by the Libyan people in meeting the challenges ahead,” she said. The UK, US and French embassies have also issued a joint statement condemning the recent violence and offering condolences to the families of all victims. “Our governments stand ready to support the Libyan people and government.” they said. Meanwhile, the Commander of the Protection Force of Benghazi, Ahmed Farage Al-Barnawi, was killed when a car-bomb fitted to his vehicle was detonated. His two sons, who were with him in the car, survived. One, only four years, is understood to have been injured in the blast. The car-bomb exploded before Maghreb prayers outside Al-Barnawi's house in the East Salmani district of the city. Al-Barnawi apparently had two vehicles. Another car-bomb was found fitted to the second vehicle. — Libya Herald
