Canadian Embassy in Libya remains 'operational'

The Canadian Embassy in Tripoli, Libya, remains "operational" amid heavy clashes between rebel militias in the North African country, but government officials will not say whether the embassy is officially open or closed.

Over the weekend, the United States evacuated its embassy because of what is reportedly some of the heaviest fighting seen in Libya since the fall of Moammar Gadhafi in 2011.

Canada has not taken that step, but a senior government source confirms there are "backup plans" for embassy staff if security becomes an issue.

Canadian officials on the ground in Libya make a decision on whether the embassy is safe on a day-to-day basis and have other places to work if needed.

However, an advisory on the embassy’s web site specifies the visa application centre will be closed until further notice.

Although other countries around the world, including France, Italy, Germany, Spain and the United States, have warned their citizens to leave Libya immediately, Canada's travel advisory remains unchanged.

Since June, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Development has had its highest advisory in place for Libya, warning Canadians to avoid all travel and suggesting Canadian citizens in the country should "consider" leaving the country "while it is safe to do so."

A spokesperson for the department said advisory levels are being monitored and recommends Canadians register their travel plans with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service.