Swiss mission to Libya returns empty-handed
The foreign ministry says it is trying to find ways to resolve a crisis with Libya triggered by the temporary arrest of one of Moammar Gaddafi's sons in Geneva last week.
The cabinet held an extraordinary meeting on Friday after a Swiss delegation returned from Tripoli where it held unfruitful talks with foreign ministry officials.
The cabinet discussed the unilateral measures taken by the Libyan authorities. No decision was made about possible retaliatory steps against Libya.
Tripoli still refuses to grant access to two Swiss citizens detained in a crowded prison cell for violating immigration rules according to a foreign ministry spokesman. The other about 40 Swiss expatriates in Libya are said to be safe.
Libya also ordered Swiss companies to close and ceased issuing travel documents for Swiss citizens.
However, the foreign ministry said it had no official confirmation of the suspension of crude oil deliveries to Switzerland.
The Libyan authorities reportedly want an official apology for the arrest of Hannibal Gaddafi and an end to judicial proceedings against him.
He and his wife Aline were charged by a Swiss magistrate with inflicting physical injuries and using threats and force against two of their staff.
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