Libya's parliament in the east has approved a maritime boundaries agreement with Turkey, a move that has drawn strong criticism from Greece, which denounced it as a violation of international law.
The deal is a significant development in the long-standing dispute over maritime borders and energy exploration rights in the Eastern Mediterranean. Originally agreed in 2019 by the internationally recognized government in Tripoli, the rival administration led by military commander Khalifa Haftar had previously withheld its approval for years. Greece, Egypt, and Cyprus have consistently opposed the deal, asserting that it infringes upon their own maritime claims.
In response, Athens issued a statement declaring the deal "illegal, null and void, contravenes international law of the sea, and infringes upon the sovereign rights of states in the region." The Greek foreign ministry urged the Libyan side to cease any actions that violate international law and undermine stability in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Turkey's foreign ministry welcomed the decision, affirming that the agreement respects the mutual rights and interests of both nations under international law and principles of equity. The ministry stated that Turkey remains committed to collaborating with all partners to ensure security, stability, and peace in the Mediterranean basin. This development comes as Athens and Cairo have their own overlapping exclusive economic zone agreement, which Ankara opposes.
The approval of the maritime deal signifies a notable shift in Libya's political landscape, particularly given Turkey's past crucial support for repelling Haftar's forces during the civil conflict. Recent years have seen a steady improvement in relations, with Turkish officials engaging in regular visits to Benghazi and significant investments in various sectors. Concurrently, the eastern parliament reversed a 2020 decision to sever political ties with Ankara, underscoring the evolving relationship between Turkey and the eastern Libyan administration.
Analysts suggest this parliamentary ratification could pave the way for an expanded Turkish military presence in eastern Libya. The vote is seen as a watershed moment, potentially strengthening Libya's position as a key partner for major powers, despite potential opposition from certain regional actors.
