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Libya/US

Compensation deal signed for Lockerbie, Berlin bombing

Article published on the 2008-08-14 Latest update 2008-08-14 13:42 TU

Libya's President Moamer Kaddafi (File Photo : Reuters)

Libya's President Moamer Kaddafi
(File Photo : Reuters)

Libya and US signed a full compensation deal Thursday for families of American victims of the 1988 Pan Am flight that exploded over Lockerbie, Scotland, killing 270, and a bombing at a Berlin disco that killed two Americans. Libyan families of the 41 victims who died in Benghazi and Tripoli during US reprisal attacks in 1986 will also be compensated.

The agreement paves the way towards a total normalisation of diplomatic relations with Libya.

"This agreement signed today is designed to resolve the last major historical issue that has stood in the way of a more normal relationship between our two countries," said US Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs David Welch.

He was on hand with Libyan Deputy Foreign Minister Ahmad Fituri in Tripoli to sign the agreement.

While the US announced the normalisation of ties in 2006, the appointment of a US ambassador to Tripoli and approval for funds for a new embassy have been held up in the Senate.

Congress has passed a bill that grants Libya immunity from lawsuits once compensation has been paid through the fund.