Libya’s Prime Minister-designate, Osama Hammad, opened the third regular Cabinet meeting of 2025 in the city of Derna, commending the ongoing reconstruction and development efforts in areas devastated by the 2023 floods caused by Storm Daniel.
Speaking from Derna, Hammad described the city as a “symbol of resilience and sacrifice” that overcame terrorism thanks to the Libyan Armed Forces and loyal citizens, and is now facing the aftermath of natural disaster with determination.
He praised the Libyan Army’s role not only in national defense but also in rebuilding critical infrastructure. Hammad highlighted several completed and ongoing strategic projects led by the Libya Reconstruction and Development Fund, covering the eastern, southern, and parts of western Libya. He emphasised that the rebuilding of Derna requires a unique approach, given the human and material losses suffered during the floods.
The Prime Minister also paid tribute to the Libyan military, praising their efforts in developing training bases—such as the Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar Military City—and raising operational readiness. He lauded the army’s role in securing Libya’s borders and fighting human trafficking and smuggling.
Hammad extended thanks to Greece for its assistance during the Storm Daniel crisis, which included humanitarian aid, rescue teams, and medical support. He also acknowledged Greece’s cooperation on issues like illegal migration and bilateral diplomatic ties.
However, he expressed concern over a recent Greek announcement dated June 12, 2025, inviting international tenders for hydrocarbon exploration in maritime zones south of Crete. Hammad stated that part of the proposed area overlaps Libya’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), and asserted Libya’s right to explore and utilize its resources under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
To address this issue, Hammad confirmed that the Libyan government has referred its maritime boundary agreement with Turkey to the House of Representatives for consideration. Additionally, a special committee was formed under Cabinet Resolution No. 122 (2025) to review maritime boundaries in the EEZ and all related agreements signed since 2002.
