Libya attacks Clinton's call for development in Africa

Libya attacked statements by US President Bill Clinton that the United States seeks to establish a center for developing democracy and peace in the African continent.

Libya said these declarations come in the framework of continuous American attempts to deploy its influence and domination on the African continent in order to rob its treasures and natural wealth. It added that the US prepares for the white man's concept of Africa under the pretexts of advancing democracy and peace in the continent.

Clinton said last week after meeting with French President Jacques Chirac that Center was the subject of joint discussions between the US and France: "We want to expand cooperation in Africa, promoting peace in the Great Lakes region, encouraging an African crisis response capability. And today we are announcing that we're joining together with African nations in an effort I spoke about first last year in Senegal, building an African Center for Security Studies, to promote peace and democracy."

Libyan media, which reflect official position, described this as interference in the affairs of the African continent, asserting that Africa does not need America's "phony democracy with all kinds of prejudice."