A remote latching mechanism is provided having a connecting member, preferably a cylindrical rod, means for rotating the connecting member about its longitudinal axis, and a latch assembly connected to the connecting member for movement between latched and unlatched conditions in response to the rotation of the connecting member. The means for rotating the rod may be a handle assembly, having a handle journalled within a handle cup, and/or a socket member affixed to the end of the rod for rotation of the rod upon application of torque of the socket member. The latch assembly comprises a crank, at least one link member having over-center action, a pawl support and a pawl, all inter-connected so that upon rotation of the crank, the pawl is pivoted and slid relative to a latch housing between latched and unlatched positions.