The recent rapprochement between Egypt and Turkiye, marked by high-level visits between their leaders, faces a significant test due to the ongoing crisis within Libya’s central bank. This situation emerges as a crucial moment for both nations, traditionally aligned with opposing factions in Libya, to collaborate in restoring stability and addressing economic challenges that threaten to escalate into broader regional unrest. The international community will closely observe the developments, as they impact both nations’ geopolitical standing and economic interests.
Recent developments in Egyptian-Turkish relations, initiated by high-level visits between President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and President Abdel Fatteh El-Sisi, signify a substantial shift following over a decade of discord. This rapprochement is viewed as a landmark advancement in addressing broader geopolitical challenges in the Middle East. However, the ongoing crisis within Libya’s Central Bank tests this thaw in relations, highlighting the historical alignment of Egypt and Turkiye with competing factions in the nation. The recent removal of Sadiq Al-Kabir, the governor of Libya’s central bank since 2011, by Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh has exacerbated tensions. With Al-Kabir fleeing to Turkiye due to alleged threats from militias associated with the Tripoli government and facing accusations of mismanaging oil revenues, the situation has escalated into a significant political dispute. In retaliation, the eastern faction, represented by Khalifa Haftar’s Libyan National Army, has halted oil supplies, leading to a rise in global energy prices and a power struggle that further complicates Libya’s recovery efforts. Libya’s central bank plays a crucial role as the recognized custodian of oil revenues, essential for the distribution of wealth in a country beset by fragmented governance. The consequences of the oil supply shutdown are dire, triggering inflation and fuel shortages, while US Treasury warnings regarding transactions with the central bank threaten to isolate Libya economically and impede the importation of vital goods. Both Egypt and Turkiye have historically supported opposing sides in Libya’s fractious landscape, with Egypt, alongside the UAE and Russia, backing Haftar, and Turkiye providing military assistance to the Tripoli government. Compliance with shared maritime and strategic interests necessitates cooperation in resolving the Libyan crisis. Furthermore, both nations are engaged in the reconstruction phase of Libya, with Egypt focusing on western reconstruction efforts and Turkiye investing heavily in infrastructure and energy. As economic interests converge, a collaborative approach appears imperative, notwithstanding historical allegiances. El-Sisi and Erdogan’s commitment to address the Libyan crisis showcases an evolving geopolitical dynamic where economic stabilization reigns supreme over past rivalries. The current discord complicates these efforts; however, it possesses the potential to foster cooperation between the two nations. Although obstacles remain due to entrenched relationships with opposing factions, the positive reception of this detente by Libyan political leaders indicates an opportunity exists for a constructive resolution. The international community will closely monitor the developments as both leaders endeavor to cement their roles as key players in Middle Eastern peace initiatives.
The recent improvement in relations between Egypt and Turkiye marks a significant geopolitical development in the Middle East. This detente follows years of contention, particularly concerning the Libyan conflict, where both nations have historically backed rival factions. Libya’s ongoing internal crises—particularly regarding its central bank and oil management—pose a direct challenge to the newly forged ties between Cairo and Ankara. Both countries must navigate this diplomatic landscape carefully, balancing their historical allegiances with emerging economic interests that necessitate collaboration.
The current Libyan crisis serves as a pivotal test for the recently established rapprochement between Egypt and Turkiye. Both nations are compelled to engage in diplomatic efforts to stabilize Libya, leveraging collective interests in regional security and economic recovery. Successful cooperation in addressing the governance and economic challenges in Libya could redefine their bilateral relations and position both countries as facilitators of peace in an increasingly volatile region.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
