Eastern Libya’s Parliament approves the maritime agreement with Turkey and repeals decisions that had blocked relations with Ankara

Eastern Libya’s Parliament approved on Tuesday the maritime agreement concluded with Turkey and unanimously repealed two decisions adopted in 2020 that rejected agreements with Ankara and called for the severing of bilateral political relations. The decision could pave the way for stronger cooperation between the two countries in the economic, political and security fields.

The agreement concerns the delimitation of maritime claims in the eastern Mediterranean and was signed in 2019 by Turkey and the Government of National Accord, the internationally recognized administration that controlled western Libya at the time. The agreement is contested by Greece and Egypt, which argue that it affects their maritime interests and rights, including in areas with energy potential.

Parliamentarians Tarek al-Jeroushi and Aisha al-Tabalqi told Reuters that the approval came after the agreement was reviewed by specialized committees. Jeroushi said the agreement would strengthen Libya’s position in its relations with major powers, while al-Tabalqi described the assessment as comprehensive and detailed.

The vote marks a shift in the eastern authorities’ position toward Turkey. Libya remains divided between rival administrations, however, and the concrete implications of the decision for bilateral cooperation and regional maritime disputes remain to be clarified.