Turkey’s Diplomatic Role in the Ethiopia-Somalia Agreement and the Syrian Crisis

Turkey’s Communications Director praised the Ethiopia-Somalia agreement as a testament to Turkey’s peace diplomacy, emphasizing its long-term significance in African geopolitics. The agreement was facilitated by President Erdogan, addressing regional tensions and reaffirming mutual sovereignty. Altun also discussed Turkey’s humanitarian stance on the Syrian crisis, stressing the need for unity and stability amid ongoing conflicts.

Turkey’s Communications Director, Fahrettin Altun, commended the recent agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia, describing it as a significant illustration of Turkey’s pursuit of peace diplomacy. This agreement, borne from the Ankara Declaration signed with Turkish facilitation, holds substantial implications for the geopolitics of Africa and its broader peace initiatives. Altun emphasized that this complex conflict stemmed from regional geopolitics and its resolution required sustained diplomatic engagement, particularly from President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Altun stated, “It was a highly costly issue in domestic politics for both sides. By addressing their concerns and bringing them to the negotiating table, this process was realized.” He confirmed that while the agreement marked a pivotal moment, its success was the result of extensive groundwork laid by Turkey’s Foreign Ministry. Erdogan hosted both Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, where they mutually reaffirmed respect for each other’s sovereignty and adherence to international law.

In a broader context, Altun also discussed the ongoing crisis in Syria, highlighting its crucial relevance to Turkey’s national stability and humanitarian efforts, noting that Turkey has been a major recipient of migration amid the conflict. He criticized the rise of xenophobic sentiments in Turkey and reinforced the nation’s commitment to maintaining Syria’s structural integrity and developing its recovery, while ensuring terrorist groups do not exploit any power vacuums. Following the recent control of Damascus by anti-regime forces, the political landscape in Syria remains fluid, necessitating careful diplomacy.

The recent agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia is a significant diplomatic achievement for Turkey, demonstrating its role in facilitating peace in a region with a long history of conflict. This development follows tensions that arose when Ethiopia entered into a deal regarding the use of the Berbera port in Somaliland, aggravating relations with Somalia. Turkey has positioned itself as a mediator, aiming to alleviate regional strife and bolster diplomatic ties in East Africa. Furthermore, the situation in Syria remains pressing, impacting both domestic and foreign policy in Turkey, as it continues to navigate a humanitarian response to the ongoing crisis and the influx of migrants seeking refuge.

In summary, the agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia exemplifies Turkey’s effective peace diplomacy, reflecting long-term aspirations for stability in African geopolitics. The Turkish leadership’s commitment to facilitating dialogue and addressing regional conflicts is evident. Additionally, the ongoing challenges in Syria underscore the complexity of Turkey’s diplomatic landscape, where humanitarian considerations intertwine with national interests. Turkey’s proactive measures and diplomatic endeavors affirm its crucial role on the international stage concerning peace and stability.

Original Source: www.aa.com.tr