World considers next steps for Libya

ISTANBUL, Turkey, Aug. 25 (UPI) -- Delegates at a meeting of the Libya Contact Group in Istanbul noted there was much work to be done but were upbeat about new developments, leaders said.

U.S. Deputy Secretary of State William Burns represented U.S. interests at the international meeting on Libya in Istanbul.

Burns in a statement from Turkey called on forces loyal to Moammar Gadhafi to lay down their weapons and join the transition process.

"The events in Tripoli this week unquestionably represent a turning point for the people of Libya," he said. "The departure of the Gadhafi regime opens the door to a new future for Libya."

Libyan rebels have placed a $1 million bounty on Gadhafi after taking control over much of Tripoli. Several members of the international community threw their support behind the rebel-backed Transitional National Council as Tripoli fell into rebel hands.

Burns echoed sentiments expressed by his European counterparts in noting the fight wasn't over, however.

"We must collectively continue to call for the immediate end to the violence, and to safeguard civilian life," he said.

British Prime Minister David Cameron and French President Nicolas Sarkozy announced plans for a Libyan-related international conference next week in Paris.

"We have stood firmly by the Libyan people since their uprisings began six months ago and we will continue to lead international efforts to help them achieve their aspirations in the weeks and months ahead," Cameron and Sarkozy said in a statement.