Beijing signals acceptance of regime change in Libya

The Chinese Foreign Ministry has publicly expressed support for the “choice of the Libyan people” as rebel forces continue to consolidate control over Libya, the Wall Street Journal reported. China initially stood by the Gadafi regime when fighting broke out in February, reiterating its position not to interfere in other nations’ internal affairs. But as the fighting continued, Chinese representatives opened communication with rebel forces, and in March China refrained from a UN veto on NATO airstrikes. In June, Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi had already begun referring to the main Libyan opposition group “an important dialogue partner,” and “a major political force.” China had invested billions of dollars in projects in Libya before fighting began, mostly in the petrochemicals sector. China has also said it wants to play a “positive role” in rebuilding the country.