President Erdoğan to Strengthen Ties with Ethiopia and Somalia in 2025

President Erdoğan will visit Ethiopia and Somalia in early 2025 after orchestrating a deal to resolve tensions between the two nations. The agreement stemmed from Turkey’s mediation efforts in long-standing disputes related to the Somaliland coastline deal. The resolution has received positive recognition from international stakeholders, reflecting Türkiye’s role in enhancing regional stability.

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan is scheduled to visit Ethiopia and Somalia in early 2025, following a significant agreement that aims to alleviate nearly a year of escalating tensions between the two nations. Erdoğan announced his upcoming trip during an event in Erzurum, indicating that it would occur within the first two months of the new year. The agreement was achieved after intensive discussions between Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, facilitated by Erdoğan on December 11, marking a notable diplomatic accomplishment for Türkiye.

The discord originated in January when Ethiopia entered a contentious agreement with Somaliland, a breakaway region of Somalia, to lease a coastal area for military and commercial use, which Somalia deemed a breach of its sovereignty. This situation drew international concern regarding the potential for renewed conflict in the already unstable Horn of Africa region. Türkiye intervened in July, leading a series of diplomatic meetings that culminated in last week’s agreement, which garnered commendation from the African Union and various international actors including the United States and the European Union.

Erdoğan attributed the successful mediation efforts to Türkiye’s strong diplomatic ties with both nations, emphasizing, “The fact that a place with such a large and gigantic land is landlocked seriously disturbs them,” reflecting on Ethiopia’s geographical challenges. He also expressed Türkiye’s long-standing commitment to Somalia, particularly during its periods of crisis and conflict. Erdoğan further articulated Ankara’s support to both nations in economic and defense sectors, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts in fostering stability.

In addition to addressing the Ethiopian-Somali conflict, Erdoğan recently reached out to Sudan’s military leader, offering Türkiye’s assistance in mediating ongoing disputes between Sudan and the United Arab Emirates, amidst a violent conflict that has resulted in significant loss of life and widespread displacement.

The Horn of Africa has been a region of complex geopolitical dynamics influenced by historical disputes, local governance issues, and international interests. The conflict between Ethiopia and Somalia has its roots in territorial and governance disputes, specifically involving the breakaway region of Somaliland. The interaction of regional powers and external nations, such as Türkiye, indicates the strategic importance of the region. Türkiye has established itself as a key player in Horn of Africa diplomacy, promoting investments and providing support during critical periods, thereby enhancing its influence across the continent.

President Erdoğan’s upcoming visits to Ethiopia and Somalia underscore a significant achievement in regional diplomacy, following the resolution of a long-standing conflict between the two nations. This development not only highlights Türkiye’s role as a mediator but also illustrates the intricate political landscape of the Horn of Africa. As Erdoğan continues to engage with other regional conflicts, such as that in Sudan, it demonstrates Türkiye’s growing influence and commitment to fostering stability in eastern Africa.

Original Source: www.dailysabah.com