Cyprus and Lebanon have signed a landmark agreement on the delimitation of their Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), concluding 20 years of negotiations. The deal, described as a "milestone of strategic importance" by Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides, was signed in Beirut following meetings between Christodoulides and his Lebanese counterpart, Joseph Aoun. The Lebanese Minister of Transport and Public Works, Fayez Rassamni, co-signed the agreement.  The agreement seals the strong relationship between the two countries, sending a powerful political message about their commitment to international law, the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, and good neighborly relations.  The deal officially resolves a long-standing issue, paving the way for both nations to explore their respective marine resources.   It is based on the Median Line between the two countries, a long-held position of Cyprus.  The successful completion of negotiations, which intensified after President Aoun's election in January 2025, was the result of "tireless and methodical work" and political will from the leaderships of both nations.  The agreement is expected to significantly strengthen cooperation in critical sectors like energy and infrastructure, offering necessary legal and economic certainty to potential investors.  Lebanese President Aoun noted that the deal could form a foundation for international cooperation that may be extended to the entire region.  The deal facilitates the launch of new joint projects in the energy sector (especially renewables), telecommunications, and joint tourism programs.  The two presidents agreed to explore the idea of a Cyprus-Lebanon electricity interconnection.   Technical teams will be created and a viability study will be conducted; Christodoulides mentioned both countries have approached the World Bank to prepare a relevant feasibility study.  Both leaders stressed that the cooperation is not aimed at excluding or targeting anyone, but rather is intended to be a foundation for international cooperation to foster stability and prosperity throughout the region.  Aoun stated the agreement is the only way to "put an end to the violence, wars and policies of hegemonic greed." Christodoulides affirmed that the deal would benefit Cypriots, Lebanese, and the people of the region generally. The leaders also exchanged views on broader bilateral cooperation, regional developments, and Lebanon-EU relations, which Cyprus actively supports. (ICE BEIRUT)

Fonte notizia: Cyprus Mail