Written by: Basant El-Farmawy
MP Samir El-Bayoumi, a member of the House of Representatives, submitted an urgent briefing request to the Prime Minister, the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Egyptian Expatriates Affairs, as well as the Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, to assess the repercussions of the Libyan parliament's ratification of the memorandum of understanding signed with Turkey regarding the delimitation of maritime borders.
Repercussions on National Security and Energy Rights
The briefing request explained that the decision by the parliament in eastern Libya to ratify the memorandum of understanding signed in 2019 represents a notable shift, following a period of previous rejection. The MP pointed out that this memorandum, which aims to define maritime jurisdiction areas in the Mediterranean Sea, involves a violation of the principles of the international law of the sea, specifically the 1982 United Nations Convention which focuses on the principles of justice and equity in defining exclusive economic zones and the continental shelf.
The request emphasized that this step represents an assault on Egyptian rights in Mediterranean waters, particularly regarding legitimate rights to explore for petroleum and natural gas resources, which are vital resources to support the national economy and secure Egypt's developmental needs. It also warned of potential negative impacts on the stability of the Eastern Mediterranean region, which is witnessing intense regional competition.
Demands for Urgent Discussion of the Current Situation
The MP demanded that the government urgently brief the House of Representatives on all direct political, security, and economic repercussions of this memorandum on Egyptian national security. He stressed the importance of clarifying the measures and actions taken by the Egyptian state to counter this agreement, which he believes does not serve the stability of the region.
The House of Representatives member also called for the urgent discussion of the briefing request in the nearest general session of the council or through the specialized committees, in the presence of the concerned officials, given the utmost importance and direct impact this file has on the state's strategic interests.
