Egypt and Turkey’s recent strengthening of ties may offer hope for peace in Libya, where tensions between rival factions have been ongoing. The resumption of oil exports and the potential for collaboration on economic issues indicate the significance of this rapprochement. Experts suggest that their cooperation can lead to more stability in Libya.
The recent thaw in relations between Egypt and Turkey, traditional backers of opposing factions in Libya, signals a potential pathway for alleviating the longstanding tensions in the North African nation. Following a temporary suspension of oil exports that arose from a dispute over the management of Libya’s central bank, the flow of oil has now resumed. Jalel Harchaoui from the Royal United Services Institute remarked, “This was a serious crisis. And while it’s partly fixed, there are still issues that need attention.” The tensions stemmed from discord between Libya’s rival administrations, particularly the eastern government under Khalifa Haftar and the Tripoli-based Government of National Unity supported by Ankara. Harchaoui indicated that while recent negotiations have addressed some immediate concerns, the impacts of the conflict linger. In a moment demonstrating newfound cooperation, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi stated at a press conference in Ankara, “We agreed to consult between our institutions to achieve security and political stability.” This collaboration is critical in navigating the complications of the current Libyan crisis. Experts believe that the partnership between Egypt and Turkey could push the Tripoli administration toward reaching a consensus on contentious issues. Murat Aslan from the SETA Foundation emphasized the mutual advantages of this alliance, suggesting, “Both countries can push the Tripoli-based government at least to accept something or come to the least terms that they can agree,” framing the scenario as beneficial for both parties. The economic circumstances faced by both Turkey and Egypt, each grappling with their respective fiscal challenges, are driving their engagement in Libya. Aya Burweila, a Libyan security analyst, articulated that economic incentives are facilitating a pragmatic arrangement: “They’ve figured out a way to divide spheres and work together. Even in the east now, Turkish companies have cut lucrative deals, infrastructure deals, just as Egypt has.” Turkey looks to leverage Egypt’s influence over Haftar to sustain an agreement concerning the exploration of observed energy reserves in Libyan waters, while Egypt aims to see the removal of Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh from power. Harchaoui noted the seriousness of the ongoing discussions, stating, “What has already been decided is that they are going to speak and they are going to speak on a daily basis. And then at every crucial moment, they are going to make sure and Turkey, specifically, is going to make sure that Egypt is on board.”
The article discusses the recent improvement in relations between Egypt and Turkey, which were previously at odds regarding their support for conflicting factions in Libya. The reconciliation between these two nations has potential implications for stabilizing Libya amidst ongoing disputes and economic challenges. The article notes the historical context of rivalry in Libya, particularly between the eastern administration, supported by Egypt, and the western Government of National Unity, backed by Turkey. Breaking down the economics at play also highlights how mutual interests may unify these nations in propelling the Libyan resolution forward while addressing simultaneous domestic struggles.
In summary, the rapprochement between Egypt and Turkey presents a promising opportunity to ease tensions among Libya’s rival factions. The joint efforts of these two nations are fundamental in navigating the complexities surrounding Libyan governance and addressing lingering economic crises. Through ongoing dialogue and cooperation, they may not only stabilize Libya but also enhance their bilateral relationship amid domestic challenges.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
