New York:Greek Foreign Affairs Minister George Gerapetritis has declared that the Turkish-Libyan memorandum on maritime delimitation is "null and void." Delivering a joint statement on behalf of Greece, Bahrain, Cyprus, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, and the European Union at the United Nations Headquarters, Gerapetritis emphasized that the memorandum contradicts international law and cannot be used as a legal basis for maritime boundaries or affect other states.

According to Cyprus News Agency, the joint statement criticized the Libyan House of Representatives' recent decision to approve the 2019 memorandum, expressing concerns over its implications for regional security and stability. The statement highlighted the risk of arbitrary bilateral agreements undermining established international legal norms and affecting the rights of other states.

Gerapetritis pointed out that international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and customary international law, provides a necessary framework for maritime delimitation. He warned that accepting agreements that ignore these rules could set a dangerous precedent, challenging the peaceful resolution of disputes and the international legal order.

The joint statement described the Turkish-Libyan memorandum as incompatible with key principles of international law, noting it disregards geographical realities and the maritime entitlements of relevant coastal states, including islands under UNCLOS. The Libyan House of Representatives' decision, the statement added, does not change this legal stance.

The participants in the statement reaffirmed their commitment to Libya's reunification and prosperity, stressing that Libya's political stability and regional cooperation are crucial for Mediterranean peace and security. They asserted that Libya's political transition should respect international laws and foster good-neighborly relations.

Furthermore, the statement mentioned ongoing bilateral discussions between Greece and Libya concerning maritime delimitation. It noted Greece's commitment to these talks, emphasizing their alignment with international law and a willingness to continue these efforts.

Gerapetritis concluded by stating that adherence to international law is vital for regional stability and maintaining a rules-based international order.