Egypt and Turkey’s Reconciliation: A Beacon of Hope for Libyan Stability
Egypt and Turkey’s recent reconciliation may pave the way for improved stability in Libya, historically divided between rival factions supported by the two countries. Following the resumption of oil exports after a dispute over the central bank, officials from both nations emphasize the importance of collaboration to resolve Libya’s ongoing crises, driven significantly by economic challenges. Experts highlight the potential for coordinated efforts to stabilize the region, although ongoing volatility and differing influences remain.
The recent reconciliation between Egypt and Turkey, historically supporters of opposing factions in Libya, presents a promising avenue for alleviating tensions in the country. Following a dispute regarding the oversight of Libya’s central bank, which temporarily halted oil exports, Libya has resumed operations this month. Jalel Harchaoui from the Royal United Services Institute described the disruption as a “serious crisis,” emphasizing that although the issue has seen partial resolution, numerous challenges persist. The dispute between the rival administrations in Libya, which necessitated extensive negotiations for resolution, continues to bear consequences. With the renewed relationships between Turkey and Egypt, both nations could significantly contribute to stability within Libya. President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi of Egypt expressed commitment to collaboration in securing political stability during a press conference held last month in Ankara alongside Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Historically, Libya served as a battleground for Turkish-Egyptian rivalry, with Egypt backing the eastern Libyan administration led by Khalifa Haftar, while Turkey supported the Tripoli-based Government of National Unity. However, the recent collaboration between these two nations has emerged as crucial in addressing Libya’s current crisis. Murat Aslan from the SETA Foundation noted that the partnership could encourage the Tripoli administration to reach agreeable terms in their dealings. The dire economic situations facing both Turkey and Egypt are also driving their newfound cooperation in Libya, as the mutual benefits of collaboration are seen as substantial. Aya Burweila, a Libyan security analyst, remarked on the critical nature of this partnership, indicating how both entities have strategically carved out spheres for collaboration. Turkish firms have reportedly secured significant infrastructure contracts in eastern Libya, enabling a financial interdependence that bolsters their political alignment. Furthermore, Turkey is seeking assistance from Egypt to leverage its influence over Haftar to support agreements concerning the exploration of energy reserves in Libyan waters. Simultaneously, there is pressure from Cairo to displace the Ankara-supported Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh. Despite existing differences, Harchaoui asserts that both Egypt and Turkey are committed to fostering ongoing dialogue. He stated that their daily communication would ensure coordinated efforts. In summary, while the situation remains volatile, the increasing cooperation between Egypt and Turkey holds the potential for stabilizing Libya amidst significant challenges.
The article addresses the evolving diplomatic relationship between Egypt and Turkey and its potential impact on Libya’s existing political tensions. Egypt and Turkey had been supporters of opposing factions within Libya, contributing to the ongoing instability in the region. Recently, the necessity for collaboration has emerged due to the backdrop of economic crises facing both nations and the need to address Libya’s prolonged conflicts. The critical role of oil exports in Libya’s economy, coupled with ongoing disputes over governance, underscores the urgency for diplomatic engagement in achieving stability in both Libya and, consequently, the surrounding region.
The rapprochement between Egypt and Turkey signifies a strategic shift that could foster peace among Libya’s rival factions. Both nations are increasingly recognizing their interdependencies, particularly in light of economic constraints and ongoing conflicts. Their commitment to daily dialogue and cooperative engagement heralds a new chapter for Libya, although tangible progress remains necessary to resolve lingering tensions effectively.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
