The fate of the economic situation between Turkey and Libya will be determined after presidential and parliamentary elections on May 14, according to Turkish international relations expert, Mohammed Ozkan. Ozkan stated that the return of all Turkish companies to Libya is important. Speaking to the “Sada” newspaper, Ozkan said, “Turkish companies have turned to alternative trade and investments in many countries, including Africa, so I don’t think they have the same importance as in the past.”
Regarding Turkey’s economic interests in Libya, he explained that Turkey’s interest in Libya is more geopolitical than economic. However, if Libya stabilizes, there may be a clear economic relationship between the two countries. He also noted that it is difficult to know whether the new Turkish government, if it wins the presidential elections, will cooperate economically with Libya because we do not know who will win the elections.
“Recep Tayyip Erdogan will continue, but we will only know on May 14th,” Ozkan concluded.
In addition to military and economic support, Turkey and the Tripoli-based government signed a controversial maritime agreement in November 2019, which established a maritime boundary between the two countries in the eastern Mediterranean. The agreement has been criticized by Greece, Cyprus, and Egypt, who argue that it violates their own maritime rights and international law. The agreement has also escalated tensions in the region and has led to increased military presence by several countries in the eastern Mediterranean. Despite the criticism, Turkey has defended the agreement and has called for dialogue and cooperation with neighboring countries to resolve the disputes in the region.