Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has called on Libyan rivals to reunify the country, which has been divided since the fall of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. Fidan made the statement after hosting eight European and regional counterparts in Istanbul. He emphasized that conditions are now in place to ensure the permanent reunification of eastern and western Libya. The country has been plagued by divisions, with two executives disputing power: one led by Abdelhamid Dbeibah, recognized by the UN and based in Tripoli, and another in the east controlled by Khalifa Haftar.
The Libyan conflict has been ongoing since 2011, with various attempts at reconciliation. Fidan's comments come as Turkey has been strengthening ties with both the Tripoli and eastern Libyan authorities. Ankara has long supported the Tripoli government, including militarily, but its relations with eastern Libyan authorities have improved in recent years. This has led to increased political and economic contacts. Fidan stressed that the two parties have separate military structures, which must be united under a single national army.
The Turkish foreign minister acknowledged that determining how to unite the military units under one banner would be a significant challenge. However, he expressed optimism, stating that positive news on this issue would soon emerge from Turkey. Fidan's comments were made as the Turkish parliament approved a maritime delimitation agreement with the eastern Libyan authorities. The agreement has drawn criticism from the European Union and Egypt, which claim it encroaches on their rights in the eastern Mediterranean.
The maritime agreement has sparked tensions between Turkey and Egypt. Fidan recognized Egypt's reservations, stating that Turkey is open to constructive discussions. He revealed that he had informed his Egyptian counterpart, Badr Abdelatty, of Turkey's position. In a separate development, Turkish Defense Minister Yasar Güler made a concrete proposal to Egypt. Güler stated that if Egypt signs a similar agreement with Turkey, it would gain approximately 15,000 square kilometers of additional maritime jurisdiction.
The Turkish government's efforts to strengthen ties with both Libyan parties and Egypt reflect its growing influence in regional diplomacy. Turkey has been one of the few powers to maintain close relationships with both the Tripoli and eastern Libyan authorities. Fidan's call for reunification and the proposed maritime agreement have significant implications for regional stability. The international community has been closely watching developments in Libya, as the country's stability affects neighboring countries.
The situation in Libya remains complex, with multiple stakeholders involved. The UN-recognized government in Tripoli and the eastern Libyan authorities have been at odds for years. The Turkish government's attempts to facilitate dialogue and cooperation between the parties may help alleviate tensions. However, the road to reunification and stability in Libya is likely to be long and challenging.
The international community has been urging a peaceful resolution to the Libyan conflict. The Turkish government's efforts to promote dialogue and cooperation between Libyan parties and Egypt may help to reduce tensions in the region. As the situation in Libya continues to evolve, the international community will be watching closely for developments.
Key points
- Turkey's foreign minister calls for Libyan rivals to reunify the country.
- The Turkish government has been strengthening ties with both the Tripoli and eastern Libyan authorities.
- The maritime agreement between Turkey and eastern Libyan authorities has sparked tensions with Egypt.
