Greece's foreign ministry on Tuesday announced that the country has recognised the Libyan opposition's national transitional council as the legal representative of the Libyan people.

Foreign Minister Stavros Lambrinidis referred to a "crucial new phase of the transitional process, for the benefit of Libya as well as the stability in the wider region."

He added that Greece and the international (ANA-MPA) community will continue to support this effort, "always with respect for the sovereignty of Libya and the will of the Libyan people."

The Greek FM called for the beginning of a national dialogue within Libya for work for the country's future and to avoid retribution and a new round of bloodletting.