Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis opened the new Greek consulate in Benghazi, describing it as a “historic day” for Greece-Libya relations.
Standing before the gleaming new General Consulate, a building he described as a “true jewel for the region,” Gerapetritis said the inauguration signaled more than just administrative presence—it was a symbol of resilience.
“Today is a historic day for Greece, for the relations between Greece and Libya, and for Greece’s footprint in the wider region and the world,” Gerapetritis remarked. “The Greek flag now flies proudly here, in the heart of Benghazi.”
Greece is one of only two EU nations maintaining a Consulate General in the city.
Strengthening relations between Greece and Libya
The visit moved from ceremonial to strategic as Gerapetritis met with high-ranking officials of eastern Libya, including Field Marshal Haftar. The discussions centered on a shared reality: Libya is Greece’s closest Mediterranean neighbor, and their economic fates are increasingly intertwined.
- Trade & Investment: The Minister highlighted that significant Greek investments are already taking root in eastern Libya.
- Migration: Acknowledging Libya’s “extremely difficult geography” amid regional conflicts, Gerapetritis pledged to enhance cooperation.
- Security: Greece is committed to providing expertise, infrastructure, and tools to help manage irregular migration flows—a challenge that impacts the stability of the entire European Union.
Maritime zones
Ο Υπουργός Εξωτερικών, Γιώργος Γεραπετρίτης, κατά την επίσκεψή του στη Βεγγάζη, πραγματοποίησε συναντήσεις με τον επικεφαλής του Λιβυκού Εθνικού Στρατού, Στρατάρχη Khalifa Haftar, και τον Α/ΓΕΕΘΑ του Λιβυκού Εθνικού Στρατού, Στρατηγό Khaled Khalifa Haftar. pic.twitter.com/lx95vIFeQu
— Υπουργείο Εξωτερικών (@GreeceMFA) March 28, 2026
The most vital chapter of the dialogue, however, looked toward the sea. Against the backdrop of a Middle East “engulfed in flames,” the Minister emphasized the urgency of maritime cooperation.
“We jointly highlighted the value of a delimitation between Greece and Libya regarding maritime zones—specifically the Exclusive Economic Zone and the continental shelf,” he stated.
Gerapetritis underscored that such agreements must be rooted firmly in International Law, arguing that neighboring countries sharing the Mediterranean must act as pillars of stability during volatile times.
As the visit concluded, the message was clear: Greece is no longer just a bystander in Libya’s transition. Through high-level visits and new infrastructure, Athens is securing an active, permanent presence.
“Our intention,” the Minister concluded, “is for Greece to be actively present in Libya, and we will ensure that this happens.”
Related: Greece and Libya Begin Talks on Exclusive Economic Zone Demarcation