EU lifts sanctions on Libyan ports, firms

BRUSSELS

The EU says it is lifting its sanctions on Libyan ports, banks and energy firms.

EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton said Thursday the EU's goal was to provide resources to the interim government to help kick-start this North African country's economy.

The decision affects 28 Libyan ports, as well as the country's energy and banking sectors.

The EU has vowed support for a democratic Libya, pledging it would help with reconstruction.

A number of EU nations have recognized the National Transitional Authority as the legitimate government. In May, the EU extended de facto recognition by opening a diplomatic office in Benghazi.