Turkey rejects EU criticism of maritime deal with Libya

Turkey has dismissed European Union criticism of its 2019 maritime agreement with Libya, describing the EU’s position as unhelpful to regional peace and stability.

In a statement on Friday, Turkish Foreign Ministry spokesperson Öncü Keçeli responded to conclusions adopted by the European Council on 28 June 2025. The statement said the EU stance reflected the efforts of Greece and the Greek Cypriot administration to advance maritime claims that Ankara argues are incompatible with international law and the principle of equity.

The maritime memorandum of understanding, signed between Turkey and Libya’s then-UN-recognised Government of National Accord (GNA), defines maritime boundaries in the Eastern Mediterranean. Turkey maintains that the deal is legally valid and in line with international law.

Keçeli said Ankara would not accept attempts to undermine what it considers its legitimate rights and interests in the region. He also said the EU’s approach to maritime boundary issues—described as legally and technically complex—was politically biased and unlikely to contribute to stability.

Tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean have risen in recent years due to competing maritime claims and energy exploration activities involving Turkey, Greece, Cyprus, and other regional actors.

The European Council’s final communiqué is expected to express support for Greece’s position on the Turkey-Libya agreement and address concerns related to irregular migration routes from the Libyan coast to southern Europe.