Greek and Libyan technical teams are meeting in Athens for a third round of talks on the delimitation of maritime zones, as both countries continue efforts to maintain dialogue despite significant differences over key issues.
The meeting comes just weeks after the previous round of negotiations in early June. While no major breakthrough is expected, the talks are seen as an opportunity to preserve communication channels and clarify each side’s position.
Disputed Maritime Agreement Remains Main Obstacle
According to the report, the Libyan government continues to base its position on the maritime memorandum it signed with Turkey, which Greece considers illegal under international law.
Athens, however, remains committed to promoting the principles of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) as the foundation for negotiations and views the technical discussions as a chance to present its legal arguments and record the positions of both sides.
Greek officials believe the latest meeting will also test whether the framework established during the previous round of negotiations is being respected, creating the conditions for possible future progress.
Greece Seeks Broader Bilateral Cooperation
Beyond maritime boundaries, Greece is pursuing closer engagement with both the government in Tripoli and eastern Libya, aiming to expand cooperation in areas including migration, infrastructure, transport and trade.
Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis has repeatedly stressed the importance of maintaining open communication with all sides in Libya, despite the country’s complex political landscape.
According to the report, Athens recognizes Turkey’s strong influence in Tripoli but believes there are still opportunities for cooperation. Greece also sees its position within the European Union and the United Nations as a potential avenue for supporting Libya’s broader international engagement.
Limited Signs of Common Ground
Although the maritime memorandum between Turkey and Libya remains the central point of disagreement, Greek officials point to one recent development as a modest sign of convergence.
The report notes that, despite maintaining its legal claims, Libya respected the median line between the two countries when designating offshore exploration blocks, a move that Athens views as a positive indication amid otherwise difficult negotiations.
