**Turkey Set to Explore Energy in Libya’s Waters Amid Warming Relations**
Libya’s eastern parliament is preparing to allow Turkey to conduct energy exploration in its waters, marking a significant shift in relations between Ankara and the region. The House of Representatives in Benghazi is expected to vote soon on a 2019 agreement that outlines the terms for this exploration, according to sources familiar with the discussions in both Turkey and Libya. Most barriers to the agreement have been cleared, although the sources requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the topic.
Libya, an OPEC member, is currently divided between rival governments in Benghazi and Tripoli. The Tripoli government, which has strong ties with Turkey, supports the deal, while the eastern faction, led by military commander Khalifa Haftar, has previously opposed it. If the agreement is approved, it could initiate oil and gas exploration by Turkish vessels in a region between Crete and Turkey, further asserting Ankara’s claims in the eastern Mediterranean. This development could escalate tensions with Greece and Cyprus, who accuse Turkey of attempting to dominate disputed waters.
The shift in eastern Libya’s stance indicates a new détente between Turkey and Haftar, who were on opposing sides during the 2019-2020 conflict over the Libyan capital. Turkey had previously supported a government in Tripoli that Haftar sought to overthrow with the backing of allies like the UAE, Egypt, and Russia. Although a UN-backed peace initiative has led to the appointment of a new premier, Abdul Hamid Dbeibah, the division between the two regions remains unresolved. Disputes over revenue from Libya’s vast oil reserves and control of key state institutions continue, though significant fighting has not occurred in recent years.
In recent times, Turkey has been quietly fostering relations with Haftar. This initiative follows Ankara’s notable rapprochement with Egypt after years of tension over political Islam. The two nations collaborated last year to address a power struggle within Libya’s central bank that threatened to escalate into civil conflict.
In a further indication of improving relations, a Turkish navy corvette, the TCG Kinaliada, is visiting Benghazi’s port this week. Additionally, Turkey is contemplating sending military trainers and advisors to the region. Haftar’s son, Saddam, met with Turkey’s defense minister and army chief in Ankara in April. While the exploration of the Mediterranean is a key motivation, Turkey is also eager to revive business contracts worth billions that were disrupted by the ongoing conflict in Libya.
**FAQ**
**Q: What is the significance of Turkey’s energy exploration in Libya?**
A: Turkey’s energy exploration in Libya represents a significant shift in regional relations, potentially enhancing Ankara’s influence in the eastern Mediterranean and impacting ongoing disputes with Greece and Cyprus.
