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Egypt and Italy Discuss Maritime Zones Amid Libyan Instability

Published January 20, 2026, 12:24
Egypt and Italy Discuss Maritime Zones Amid Libyan Instability

Egypt and Italy are revisiting the issue of maritime zone delimitation, a move linked to the instability in Libya. The Egyptian Deputy Foreign Minister met with the Italian Director for Middle Eastern Affairs in Cairo, where developments in Libya and the need for a sustainable solution to the crisis were discussed. The discussion on maritime zones highlights the geopolitical importance of the region and the need for cooperation between neighboring countries, with respect for international law. The delimitation of maritime zones in the eastern Mediterranean is a critical factor for the balances in the area. The re-emergence of the issue by Egypt and Italy comes at a time of increased tension and uncertainty in the eastern Mediterranean, due to disagreements over the rights to explore and exploit hydrocarbons.