The Tripoli-based Libyan government has formally submitted a diplomatic complaint to the United Nations, objecting to Greece’s recent delineation of its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) south of Crete.
Libya contends that the boundaries, published in the Official Journal of the European Union on June 12, infringe upon its maritime rights.
In a note to the UN, Tripoli argued: “The Government of Libya considers this action a clear violation of its sovereign rights and a unilateral measure without legal basis or any bilateral agreement.”
The Libyan government also included its own map of maritime boundaries in direct opposition to Greece’s claims.
Greek diplomatic officials responded by stating that Libya’s protest is based on the controversial Turkey-Libya maritime accord – an agreement Greece does not recognise.
They emphasised: “Greece rejects any actions or claims based on invalid and unfounded agreements, which have no basis in the International Law of the Sea.”
Athens is expected to issue an official response to the UN in due course.
Source: Ekathimerini
