On Saturday, the Turkish news agency “Anka” announced the appointment of Güven Begeç as the country’s new ambassador to Libya, succeeding Kenan Yilmaz. This decision, officially signed by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, signifies a strategic adjustment in Turkey’s diplomatic engagement with Libya.
Kenan Yilmaz, who served as Turkey’s ambassador since April 2021, played a crucial role in strengthening Turkish-Libyan relations. During his three-year tenure, Yilmaz worked on various initiatives, including visits to Benghazi which indicated a diplomatic thaw with eastern Libyan factions led by Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar. His efforts also included discussions on resuming suspended Turkish projects and reopening the Turkish consulate in Benghazi.
Güven Begeç, the new appointee, brings extensive diplomatic experience, having previously served as Turkey’s Deputy Director General for International Political Organizations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. His appointment is expected to enhance bilateral ties further, with a focus on economic cooperation, infrastructure projects, and regional stability.
This diplomatic shift is critical given Libya’s ongoing political and military complexities. Turkey’s balanced approach, supporting the Tripoli-based Government of National Unity (GNU) underscores its strategic intent to maintain influence in Libya. Begeç’s appointment aims to continue this policy, ensuring that Turkey’s interests are well-represented across the Libyan political landscape.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations.
Libya’s economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya’s economy.
The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions.
