Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis’ second visit to Tripoli highlighted both the persistence of geopolitical challenges in Libya and Athens’ continued efforts to open up meaningful diplomatic dialogue.
While Libyan officials, including Foreign Minister Taher al-Baour, Prime Minister Dbeibeh, and Presidential Council President Menfi expressed openness to dialogue, they reiterated their firm position that the Turkey-Libya maritime memorandum remains a binding institutional reference—one that Greece categorically rejects as illegal under international maritime law.
The Greek side raised concerns over Libya’s recent note to the UN, disputing Greece’s jurisdiction over maritime blocks south of Crete—an issue that escalated tensions. Although Libyan officials cited “surprise” at Greece’s licensing announcement, Athens emphasized legal consistency and proposed a technical-level restart of delimitation talks.
Greece is betting on its elevated international role as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council to exert pressure and push for progress. Migration and economic cooperation were also on the agenda, although current migrant flows from Libya to Greece remain minimal.
Turkey’s strong influence over the Tripoli government remains a critical obstacle. With Ankara enjoying long-standing privileged ties with Libyan leadership, Greece must carefully navigate the diplomatic balance. Continued bilateral contact and a demonstration of Greece’s commitment to Libyan stability are now central to Athens’ strategy.
