UN humanitarian official arrives in Libya to discuss aid delivery

The United Nations humanitarian coordinator for Libya, Rashid Khalikov, arrived in Tripoli today for discussions with authorities that will focus on access for aid workers who need to travel across the country to assess the requirements of those affected by the unrest and ensure that assistance is delivered to them.

Fighting pitting the forces of Libya's leader, Colonel Muammar Al-Qadhafi, and against opponents seeking his ouster has escalated in recent weeks forcing thousands of foreign workers to flee the country.

Since the beginning of the crisis on 17 February, the international aid community has expressed concern over the limited access to various areas in Libya, including those places where heavy fighting is taking place.

About 260,000 people, mostly foreigners, have left Libya for neighbouring countries, including Tunisia and Egypt.

In response to the crisis, the UN and its partners launched a Flash Appeal seeking $160 million to assist both those leaving the country and those expected to need humanitarian assistance inside Libya.