The Ankara Process: Türkiye’s Strategic Role in Promoting Stability in East Africa

Türkiye’s win-win policy culminated in the Ankara Process, which successfully mediated tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia. This initiative prevented escalating conflicts and established peace and stability in the Horn of Africa. The Ankara Declaration supported international law and Somalia’s sovereignty while allowing Ethiopia commercial access to the Red Sea, reflecting Türkiye’s effective diplomatic role. This engagement positions Türkiye as a credible partner in Africa, attracting global attention and reshaping regional dynamics.

Türkiye has successfully implemented its win-win policy in Africa, culminating in the effective resolution of tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia through the Ankara Process. Initiated after a precarious memorandum threatened Somalia’s sovereignty, Türkiye’s mediation played a crucial role in preventing a potential war. The Ankara Declaration fostered dialogue, underscored commitments to international law, and facilitated political stability in the Horn of Africa, earning Türkiye praise from the international community and establishing its reputation as a trustworthy mediator. With its emphasis on cooperation, Türkiye’s approach has reshaped regional dynamics, attracting the attention of global powers and highlighting new opportunities for collaboration.

The Ankara Process began amidst escalating tensions following Ethiopian PM Abiy Ahmed Ali’s signing of a controversial memorandum with Somaliland, jeopardizing Somalia’s territorial integrity. Türkiye’s involvement was pivotal during a period devoid of dialogue, reflecting a commitment to peace and stability. Under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s leadership, Türkiye crafted an environment conducive to negotiations, laying the groundwork for a peaceful resolution. The Ankara Declaration that ensued not only preserved Somalia’s sovereignty but also ensured Ethiopia’s access to the Red Sea, emphasizing compliance with international regulations. Türkiye’s diplomatic engagement has appeased concerns about military conflicts, strengthening cooperative ties in the region.

Over the past two decades, Türkiye’s proactive foreign policy has focused on win-win strategies in Africa, promoting stability through economic partnerships while respecting local interests. The success of the Ankara Process signifies Türkiye’s evolving role as a constructive mediator in East Africa, contrasting with other foreign influences. Notably, it has also attracted international attention, prompting countries like France to recalibrate their diplomatic strategies in the face of Türkiye’s growing influence.

Moving forward, Türkiye’s role in the Horn of Africa is crucial, particularly in protecting trade routes and enhancing regional security amidst the presence of new global actors. By advocating for shared development goals, Türkiye’s win-win approach signals its position as a leading partner in fostering peace in the region. The established diplomatic channels may evolve to include further negotiations in crises, as evidenced by Türkiye’s potential mediation between Sudan and the UAE shortly after the Ankara Declaration. Ultimately, the successful management of the Somalia-Ethiopia conflict represents a broader strategy that benefits both regional and global stability, cementing Türkiye’s status as an essential player in contemporary African geopolitics.

The Ankara Process reflects Türkiye’s longstanding policy of fostering win-win relationships in Africa, focused on mutual benefits and conflict resolution. In light of historical grievances and complex geopolitical dynamics in the Horn of Africa, Türkiye emerged as a mediating force between Ethiopia and Somalia after tensions escalated due to a contentious memorandum signed by Ethiopian leadership. The process highlights Türkiye’s commitment to regional stability and aligns its foreign policy with principles of international law and cooperation, reinforcing its credibility in Africa over a nearly two-decade engagement.

In conclusion, the successful mediation of the crisis between Ethiopia and Somalia through the Ankara Process underscores Türkiye’s efficacy in promoting regional peace and stability. By navigating diplomatic challenges and fostering dialogue, Türkiye has reinforced its role as a pivotal actor in East Africa, fostering economic opportunities and collective development. This process not only alleviates regional tensions but also strengthens Türkiye’s global standing, showcasing its capacity to engage in complex geopolitical landscapes effectively. With heightened international interest, Türkiye’s strategies in Africa are positioned to yield long-term benefits for all parties involved.

Original Source: www.dailysabah.com