Dutch nationals in Libya are not in immediate danger, according to the Netherlands' ambassador in Tripoli, Gerard Steegh, referring to the protests against the Kadhafi regime.

He told Radio Netherlands Worldwide on Sunday that it was relatively quiet in those areas of the Libyan capital where the Dutch live. But Ambassador Steegh said he was concerned that the unrest would spread, having heard shooting in Tripoli.

In all 170 Dutch nationals have been registered by the Netherlands embassy, but it is assumed there are more Dutchmen in Libya who have not got in touch with the embassy. The Foreign Ministry in The Hague has advised against travelling to Libya. Dutch companies have so far not withdrawn from Libya.

Ambassador Steegh confirmed that Libyian authorities suspended internet traffic on Saturday, but said that the embassy has alternative means of communicating with the outside world.

© Radio Netherlands Worldwide