An increase in anti-Western rhetoric is not expected to deter foreign investors from Libya, as Muammar Gaddafi has indicated that his political beliefs will not hinder economic reform. Gaddafi criticized Western corporate "colonialism" in early March during speeches commemorating the 30th anniversary of his state's Jamahiriyah system, which prohibits elections and political parties. These remarks were likely intended to appease hardline advisors concerned about being marginalized by economic liberalization, as well as to express Libya's dissatisfaction with what it perceives as insufficient recognition from the West for giving up its weapons of mass destruction program in 2003. Despite being heartfelt, analysts believe that Gaddafi's views will not jeopardize the pro-business reforms he has supported in the OPEC member country known for its oil and gas exports. Gaddafi has consistently expressed his distaste for the pro-Western world economic order, but acknowledges that Libya must still cooperate with it in order to avoid economic disaster. Analyst Geoff Porter from Eurasia Group consultants believes Gaddafi's speeches are mainly intended for domestic audiences, as oil companies have not been discouraged and continue to operate in Libya. Monica Enfield from PFC Energy consultants describes Gaddafi's behavior as characteristic of his eccentricity. Companies are becoming accustomed to the situation, but Western firms may have concerns. Libyan leader Gaddafi warned that Libyans must be prepared to defend against any attempts by Western oil companies to put in place a puppet leader. Gaddafi stated that anyone promoting colonization will face resistance. He also suggested that if an American company were promised control of Libya and the majority of oil revenues, they would support and collaborate with that individual. "Why wouldn't they?" Analysts believe that they will offer him a large sum of money in order to make even more in return. The speeches seem to be directed towards members of influential revolutionary committees who are worried about their future in a more globally connected Libya. The main role of these committees, made up of Gaddafi supporters, is to promote participation in government congresses and uphold loyalty to his ideology of no political parties. However, some members of these committees have benefitted financially from their connections to the government, and they may view a more transparent business environment as a challenge. "He is appealing to the long-standing supporters who rose with him," stated Mansour el-Kikhia, a Libyan political expert at the University of Texas. "These supporters are worried that any change in his stance will impact them. He needs to assure them that they are still valued." Ashour Shamis, a experienced Libyan commentator based in the UK, suggested that Gaddafi's remarks should be understood within the framework of a battle between those in favor and against economic reform. "Both sides are unsure if they have his support." He is attempting to reassure the committees by suggesting that 'there may be some upcoming changes but they will not impact the fundamental aspects of the system.' Some believe that increasing business connections with the West show that the reformists are gaining support. A group of leading companies, led by the US-Libya Business Association, traveled to Tripoli in December 2006 and were informed about $25 billion worth of investment opportunities. "We were very impressed with the positive and productive discussions we had with the government," stated association director David Goldwyn. In February, Ahmed Fituri, head of the Americas department at Libya's foreign ministry, became the highest-ranking official to visit Washington since the 2003 announcement. Rex Tillerson, chairman of Exxon Mobil, visited Tripoli in February to attend the signing of an energy exploration venture. According to Claire Spencer of Britain's Royal Institute of International Affairs, the speeches made during the visit may have been a way to show that Libya still needs to be courted and is still important. She mentioned that Libya feels like they have been ignored since the 2003 weapons move, suspecting that the US believes they have already dealt with Libya. Spencer also noted that the more outrageous rhetoric these days comes from Iran and Venezuela, which attracts attention. In 2004, the United States lifted a broad trade embargo on Libya that was imposed in 1986, and diplomatic ties were restored in 2006. However, there have been disagreements between the two parties regarding the payment of restitution by Libya to the families of those who died in the 1988 bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 over Scotland. The bombing, which was attributed to Libyan agents, resulted in the deaths of 270 individuals. Some of the victims' families claim that Tripoli has not fulfilled its obligations to make restitution payments.