Benghazi – Speaker of the House of Representatives, Counselor Aguila Saleh, stressed that the legislative authority will not allow any maritime agreement to be imposed on Libya outside of approved constitutional rules. He affirmed that the House of Representatives is the only body legally authorized to approve international treaties. Any agreement not presented to it for ratification is considered legally void.
In an interview with the Libyan News Agency (LANA), Saleh stated the maritime agreement signed between Fayez al-Sarraj’s government and Turkey lacks legal legitimacy. This is because that government did not receive a vote of confidence from the House of Representatives. It also lacked the constitutional authority to conclude major international agreements.
He confirmed the agreement was never submitted to parliament for approval. Saleh stressed that any action based on an illegal foundation remains void, regardless of how much time passes. He noted that the international community is aware of this fact.
The Speaker noted that international positions on the agreement have varied. Some countries recognized its illegitimacy. Others treated it as a de facto reality for political reasons. He emphasized that changes in government do not affect the stability of constitutional legitimacy.
He also pointed out that Greece recently expressed a desire to open dialogue. Egypt’s position was clear from the start, rejecting the agreement due to the risks it poses to regional stability. Meanwhile, Turkey has shown readiness to enter comprehensive negotiations with Libya.
Counselor Saleh explained that Libya does not oppose agreements with any country, including Turkey. However, any such agreement must be made through a legitimate, approved government. It must also be based on technical studies prepared by specialists. The agreement would then be submitted to the House for approval after ensuring Libya’s maritime borders are secured.
Regarding the Greek position, he clarified that Athens relies on islands near the Libyan coast, primarily Crete, to define its exclusive economic zone. This gives Greece an unjustified maritime extension at the expense of Libyan rights. He stressed that international law does not support such claims. Saleh also revealed that specialized technical committees have been assigned to prepare a comprehensive report on the technical and geopolitical aspects of maritime demarcation.
He confirmed that he has informed the Greek side and other parties that any agreement must be conducted through a legitimate government approved by the House of Representatives. Its final version must be presented to parliament for ratification through the proper constitutional process.
Assessing the agreement’s consequences, the Speaker said it caused internal confusion and a regional crisis. It dragged Libya into regional conflicts without a unified national vision. He affirmed that work is underway to address the effects of this mistake. The goal is to turn it into an opportunity that protects Libyan interests.
Counselor Saleh emphasized that Libya is an independent state and not subordinate to any regional axis. Libya will not be a tool in the conflicts of others. He explained that its relations with Egypt, Greece, and Turkey are based on balanced dialogue and the protection of national interests, without full alignment with any party.
He stressed that Libyan sovereignty, particularly its maritime borders, is a red line that cannot be compromised. He clarified that discussions can only be about technical or procedural aspects, without infringing upon the state’s sovereign rights.
He stated that any future dialogue will be based on three main tracks. These include a technical track for border demarcation, a legal track to study international standards, and a political track to ensure a balance of interests. He believes this approach can lead to a fair and sustainable agreement.
Regarding the internal debate on this issue, the Speaker attributed it to a lack of information. He affirmed a commitment to full transparency. Any agreement will be presented to parliament for public discussion, with no secret deals.
Saleh delivered a message to the Libyan people. He assured them the House of Representatives will only approve what protects the country and its rights. He stressed that Libya has a real opportunity to rebuild its maritime policy. Parliament will be the legislative guarantor of the Libyan people’s rights.