The African Union has announced it will recognize Libya’s new governing council, a major diplomatic step following the ouster of longtime leader Col. Muammar Gaddafi. The A.U.’s decision came as the flag of the new Libya was raised at the United Nations for the first time. U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and President Obama were among the world leaders to congratulate the new Libyan government.

U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon: “For Libya, this is a historic day. Last Friday, the General Assembly of the United Nations overwhelmingly voted to accept the credentials of the new Libyan leadership. Today we are honored to formally welcome them into the international community and to this first major meeting at the United Nations.”

President Obama: “So long as the Libyan people are being threatened, the NATO-led mission to protect them will continue. And those still holding out must understand the old regime is over, and it is time to lay down your arms and join the new Libya.”