Canada evacuates embassy staff from Libya

Canada has evacuated its embassy staff and suspended its diplomatic presence in strife-torn Libya.

Dimitri Soudas, the top spokesman for Prime Minister Stephen Harper, said Saturday the decision was based on the recommendation of Canada's ambassador in Tripoli and in close collaboration with other countries.

A military plane carried the Canadian ambassador, five consular officials as well as 18 other Canadians out of the country early Saturday.

The C-17 also carried British citizens and officials from Australia's diplomatic mission. In all, 46 people were evacuated.

There are now fewer than 100 Canadians in Libya hoping to leave. Some 200 Canadians have escaped on an American-chartered ferry and planes brought in by other countries.