Greece Plans Legal Response to Libya's Maritime Claims
The sources stated that while these diplomatic notes carry no immediate legal effect, they may influence future judicial proceedings. 'We must be precise in what we write, and we will respond,' one official noted.
Greek officials claim that Libya's maritime maps disregard the rights of islands such as Crete, which they argue are recognised under international law. However, Libya maintains that its agreements, including the 2019 Turkey-Libya maritime accord, are consistent with its sovereign rights and regional geography. Tripoli insists the memorandum with Turkey is a legitimate framework for defining maritime zones, despite Greece's objections.
The maritime dispute has been further complicated by irregular migration flows across the Mediterranean. Greek authorities have linked the issue to instability in eastern Libya and are calling for coordinated European Union action. Libyan officials, however, highlight that resolving maritime and migration challenges requires dialogue and respect for Libya's sovereignty rather than unilateral measures.
Despite ongoing tensions, Athens has acknowledged that Libya has informally respected the median line in contested waters. Diplomatic channels remain open, with Greece emphasising that it engages both of Libya's rival authorities at senior levels.
The next Greece-Turkey High Council meeting, aimed at managing regional tensions and improving dialogue, is expected to take place in September. The outcome of these talks may have implications for maritime negotiations with Libya. Tags: CreteGreecelibyaMaritimeMediterranean
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