Turkey to Enhance Cooperation with Africa in Djibouti Ministerial Meeting

Turkey’s Foreign Minister will attend a Turkey-Africa ministerial meeting in Djibouti on November 2-3 to enhance cooperation with the continent, following a significant expansion of Turkey’s influence in Africa. The meeting will involve 14 African nations and will address ongoing issues including mediation efforts between Somalia and Ethiopia, and Turkey’s military and economic engagements in Africa.

Turkey’s Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan, is set to travel to Djibouti for a Turkey-Africa ministerial meeting aimed at enhancing cooperation with the African continent. The meeting, scheduled for November 2-3, will evaluate the outcomes of a previous conference held in 2021 and will be attended by representatives from 14 African nations. In recent years, Turkey has significantly increased its presence in Africa, evidenced by an eight-fold increase in trade and various diplomatic and military engagements across the continent. This includes ongoing mediation efforts between Somalia and Ethiopia regarding a lease agreement for a coastal area involving Somaliland, amidst the broader challenge of rising terrorism in West Africa. The Turkish government has also recently formalized a partnership with Niger, focusing on mining and energy, and has been active in providing defense capabilities, including drones, to several African states. The ongoing provision of military equipment is intended to bolster national security and counterterrorism initiatives within recipient countries.

Turkey has progressively intensified its diplomatic and economic ties with Africa, positioning itself as a key player on the continent. This strategic engagement includes not only rendering military assistance but also establishing extensive trade relations and collaborations in various sectors such as mining and energy. The upcoming ministerial meeting in Djibouti is viewed as a critical opportunity for Turkey to reinforce these cooperative efforts and address ongoing regional geopolitical challenges, most notably the tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia, as well as the escalation of terrorist activities in West Africa. Additionally, Turkey’s initiatives highlight its competitive stance against major powers like France, Russia, and China, who are also seeking to fortify their influence in Africa.

The Turkey-Africa ministerial meeting in Djibouti marks another step in Turkey’s strategic engagement with African countries, underscoring its commitment to enhancing diplomatic relations, increasing trade, and supporting regional security. This meeting aims not only to address past discussions but also to find pathways for deeper collaboration amidst complex geopolitical challenges in the region. Turkey’s active role in providing military support and pursuing economic partnerships demonstrates its intention to strengthen its footprint in Africa, contrasting the influences of traditional powers.

Original Source: www.usnews.com