Cyprus has reiterated that the Turkey-Libya maritime deal is “null and void”, arguing that the 2019 agreement violates international law and disregards the sovereign rights of coastal states.
The position was presented by Cyprus’ UN representative, Ambassador Maria Michael, during an open debate at the UN Security Council on emerging technologies and maritime security, convened under the Greek Presidency.
The discussion followed the recent ratification of the memorandum by Libya’s House of Representatives.
Michael said the agreement did not comply with international law, including the rules governing the conclusion of treaties and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
“Geography cannot be changed, nor can the sovereign rights of states be disregarded through arbitrary maritime delimitations,” she stressed.
Cyprus cites international law and island rights
The ambassador highlighted Article 121 of UNCLOS, which establishes the legal regime governing islands and their entitlement to maritime zones.
She described the convention as fundamental to maritime security, legal certainty and the peaceful settlement of disputes, adding that provisions reflecting customary international law are binding on all states.
“The Mediterranean is our common sea. Its security and stability depend on good neighbourly relations grounded on respect for international law and the sovereign rights of all coastal states,” Michael said.
AI offers opportunities but creates maritime security risks
Addressing the main theme of the Security Council debate, Michael said artificial intelligence could strengthen maritime security by improving monitoring, early warning systems and crisis response.
She also pointed to its potential role in protecting critical maritime infrastructure and supporting peacekeeping, humanitarian operations, ceasefire monitoring and the implementation of sanctions.
However, she warned that emerging technologies could also intensify existing threats, including cyberattacks and hybrid operations targeting ports, shipping, submarine cables and energy infrastructure.
The ambassador stressed that artificial intelligence must be developed and deployed responsibly, with meaningful human oversight, transparency and accountability.
Cyprus reiterated that technological progress must remain firmly grounded in international law, particularly the UN Charter and UNCLOS.
Cyprus calls for international cooperation
Concluding her remarks, Michael highlighted the need for information sharing, capacity building and closer cooperation between states, international organisations and the maritime industry.
She also underlined the Security Council’s role in addressing the impact of emerging technologies on international peace and security while ensuring coordination across the UN system.
“Our collective objective must be to ensure that emerging technologies strengthen maritime security while remaining firmly grounded in international law, human oversight, and international cooperation,” she concluded.
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