Libya's transitional government on Sunday declared national liberation.
"Declaration of Liberation. Raise your head high. You are a free Libyan," National Transitional Council (NTC) deputy head Abdel Hafiz Ghoga announced from the stage before a jubilant crowd in Benghazi, where the revolt against ex-leader Muammar Gaddafi began.
Thousands of voices echoed him chanting, "You are a free Libyan!"
Gaddafi, who had ruled Libya for 42 years, was captured and killed by the National Transitional Council fighters on Thursday near his home town of Sirte. There is still much controversy over the circumstances surrounding his death.
The former Libyan strongman died of a gunshot wound to the head, following the results of an autopsy completed by doctors on Sunday.
"The Libyan people confirm their respect for international law... (their determination to respect) mutual interest and cooperation with all countries, particularly Libya's neighbours," Ghoga said in his speech.
"We are entering a new phase, one which asks more responsibility from all of us. May long live the revolution. May long live Libya."
EU leaders on Friday pledged support for post-Gaddafi Libya.
"I warmly welcome the announcement by the National Transitional Council that Libya has now been fully liberated," Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen said.
"This is a great victory for the people of Libya. Their courage and determination in the cause of freedom has inspired the world," he added.
