exclusive economic — Cyprus and Lebanon have officially signed an exclusive economic zone (EEZ) delimitation agreement, concluding a dispute that has lasted two decades and paving the way for collaborative energy exploration in the eastern Mediterranean.
Exclusive economic: Historic Signing Ceremony
The agreement was signed on Wednesday at Baabda Palace, with President Nikos Christodoulides of Cyprus and President Joseph Aoun of Lebanon presiding over the event. The Cypriot President, alongside Lebanon’s Minister of Transport and Public Works, Fayez Rassamny, represented their respective nations in this significant accord.
Legal Certainty for Investors
Both leaders expressed that the agreement establishes maritime boundaries, providing essential legal clarity for potential investors interested in energy exploration. Following the ceremony, President Christodoulides remarked that the signing is a milestone for bilateral relations, emphasizing the importance of international law and good neighbourly relations.
A Strong Political Message
President Christodoulides described the signing as a strong political message, indicating that Cyprus and Lebanon are committed to fostering trust and mutual respect. He highlighted the role of Lebanese political will in making this agreement possible, acknowledging the efforts of President Aoun, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, and Lebanon’s political leadership.
He commended the negotiating teams led by Rassamny and Cyprus’s national security adviser, Tasos Tzionis, for their diligent work, which he described as “tireless and methodical” and conducted “in a spirit of trust and transparency.”
Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation
During his address, Christodoulides noted that this marks the third exchange of visits between the two leaders in less than a year, reflecting the strong ties that bind the two nations. He underscored the agreement’s potential to enhance cooperation in crucial sectors such as energy and infrastructure.
Exploring Maritime Resources
President Aoun welcomed the agreement, stating it would enable both countries to begin exploring their maritime resources and bolster cooperation at this level. He outlined potential new joint projects in various sectors, including renewable energy, telecommunications, electricity transmission, and tourism.
Joint Defence Initiatives
The Lebanese president also noted the ongoing cooperation in defence and security, mentioning a joint search and rescue centre operated by both nations’ defence ministries. This initiative signifies a commitment to regional stability and collaboration in addressing common challenges.
Feasibility Study for Electrical Interconnection
In a significant development, both presidents announced their intention to pursue a feasibility study for an electrical interconnection between Cyprus and Lebanon. They have approached the World Bank to assist in this project, which has the potential to enhance energy cooperation.
Broader Bilateral Discussions
Aside from energy cooperation, the leaders engaged in discussions on broader bilateral cooperation, regional developments impacting both nations, and Lebanon’s relations with the European Union. Aoun expressed anticipation for Cyprus to assume the presidency of the Council of the European Union in the first half of 2026, hopeful that it will facilitate stronger ties with the EU.
Invitation for Future Collaboration
In closing, President Christodoulides reaffirmed Cyprus’s support for Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, declaring Cyprus as a reliable partner in the region. He extended an invitation to President Aoun for upcoming events, including the EU presidency assumption ceremony on 7 January and a Council meeting in April, where sectors such as energy and education will be discussed.
This EEZ delimitation agreement not only marks a significant step in Cyprus-Lebanon relations but also opens the door for future collaboration in energy and infrastructure, reflecting a commitment to mutual prosperity in the eastern Mediterranean.