Eastern Libya parliament approves 2019 maritime deal with Turkey

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 20 Oct, 22:20 · Archive

Libya's eastern-based parliament has approved a 2019 maritime agreement with Turkey, reversing its 2020 rejection and ending years of opposition.

Libya's eastern-based parliament, aligned with military commander Khalifa Haftar, has unanimously approved a 2019 maritime agreement with Turkey that defines jurisdiction areas in the eastern Mediterranean. The House of Representatives also repealed two 2020 resolutions: one rejecting agreements with Turkey and another cutting political ties with Ankara.

The approval marks a significant shift in regional alignments. Turkey previously backed the UN-recognised Tripoli-based government against Haftar's forces, but has since pursued military cooperation with Haftar's Libyan National Army, including a 2024 deal to develop military facilities and surveillance systems.

Greece and Cyprus have rejected the vote. Greece's Foreign Ministry said the memorandum violates international law of the sea and disregards Greek islands' rights, adding that the agreement's legal basis is 'groundless'. Cyprus called it 'illegal, null, and void'. Greece said it has informed partners and allies and will take appropriate measures to protect its sovereign rights.

The agreement concerns offshore waters in the eastern Mediterranean where major natural gas discoveries have fuelled competing territorial claims.

How it is being reported

• Libya approves contentious Turkey deal over Mediterranean watersLibya has approved a contested 2019 maritime agreement with Turkey that sets out jurisdiction areas in the eastern MediterraneanThe Independent · 20 Oct, 22:08
• Eastern Libya parliament approves 2019 maritime deal with TurkiyeThe vote recognises Ankara's maritime deal with Tripoli, ending Haftar's 2020 boycott.Al Jazeera · 20 Oct, 16:19

In this story: Turkey · Libya · Khalifa Haftar · Tripoli · Greece · Cyprus · Mediterranean Sea · Libyan National Army

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