Italian FM: UN plans Libya political, observer mission

Italy says the United Nations is planning to recommend an integrated political and military observer mission to guide Libya’s post-Qaddafi transition, helping prepare for elections and train police. Foreign Minister Franco Frattini briefed Parliament on plans outlined by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in a letter to Italy’s premier August 30. The aim of the UN political mission is to help the National Transitional Council prepare for the election of a national assembly that will draft a constitution to be put before a popular referendum. The UN would then help plan legislative and presidential elections. Frattini said Wednesday the UN is also expected to recommend an unarmed military observer mission to monitor and train local police.