Libya – Libyan energy and economic analyst Ali al-Farasi says Turkey has chosen the right moment to recalibrate its Libya policy, scaling back support for armed groups in the west and engaging the eastern-based General Command, which he credits with restoring security and creating conditions for reconstruction and economic activity.
Eastward rapprochement driven by oil wealth and infrastructure projects
In remarks to Al-Ain News, al-Farasi said Ankara now recognises the strategic weight of eastern Libya, home to “about 80 percent of the country’s discovered and undiscovered oil and gas reserves” as well as multi-billion-dollar infrastructure and investment initiatives.
Old and new contracts to bolster Turkey’s footprint
According to al-Farasi, Turkey is moving to reactivate dormant contracts signed under the former regime while striking fresh deals, particularly in housing, irrigation and agriculture. He noted that the Libya Reconstruction and Development Fund—already linked to Turkish partners—is executing projects across several cities, insulated from day-to-day political wrangling, which has deepened trust with the east.
Steps to reinforce Turkey’s role in the eastern Mediterranean
Al-Farasi argued that strengthening ties with eastern Libya and its regional allies, chiefly Egypt, is pivotal for Ankara’s bid to shape the eastern Mediterranean’s emerging energy and maritime landscape.
Long-term plans for strategic partnerships
In the longer run, Turkey aims to secure a lasting foothold through strategic partnerships that reflect new regional power balances and help ease the political polarisation of recent years, al-Farasi added.
