Turkey’s AKP is strengthening ties with Somalia and Ethiopia through separate agreements aimed at enhancing cooperation and trade. These agreements, which also consider regional tensions, emphasize Turkey’s role as a mediator in the Horn of Africa. The collaboration reflects Turkey’s strategic interests in fostering relationships and sharing governance practices with these countries.
Turkey’s ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) is enhancing its strategic relationships with Somalia and Ethiopia by signing separate political agreements. AKP deputy chairman, Zafer Sirakaya, finalized a memorandum with Somalia’s ruling Union for Peace and Development Party (UPD) in Ankara, aiming to bolster bilateral cooperation. A similar accord is anticipated with Ethiopia’s Prosperity Party (PP) in Addis Ababa soon, focusing on joint research and training.
The AKP plans to share its governance experience with its allies in both nations to encourage civil society collaboration and boost trade. While fostering these ties, Turkey remains neutral between Ethiopia and Somalia, mediating tensions in the Horn of Africa, which have escalated following Ethiopia’s recent naval agreement with Somaliland.
Due to neutrality concerns, Turkey postponed the cooperation agreement with Ethiopia that was planned for last autumn. A December memorandum reconciled some disputes between Somalia and Ethiopia, affirming Somalia’s territorial integrity and initiating access talks for Ethiopia to the sea through Somalia. Although this agreement made progress, relations continue to be tense, influenced by Somalia’s alliances, particularly with Egypt.
Tunc Demirtas, a regional expert, highlighted Turkey’s careful diplomacy, stating, “What stands out here is that [Ankara] does not take any step in the region without considering Somalia. Somalia is included in every process.” Further collaboration is expected as the AKP also plans a similar agreement with Djibouti.
Turkey has a longstanding and multifaceted relationship with Somalia, featuring a substantial military presence and active Turkish businesses managing crucial infrastructure. Amidst Ethiopia’s tensions, Somalia engaged in a defense and economic cooperation agreement with Turkey earlier this year, allowing for military capacity building and exploration of energy resources in the Somali territory.
This article discusses Turkey’s efforts to strengthen strategic ties with Somalia and Ethiopia through political agreements initiated by the AKP. Turkey’s neutrality in regional disputes and its role as a mediator are key to understanding its diplomatic strategies. The context includes the ongoing tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia, influenced by geopolitical dynamics, including alliances with Egypt and recent agreements regarding access to maritime resources.
In summary, Turkey’s AKP is strategically enhancing its political and economic partnerships with Somalia and Ethiopia through bilateral agreements aimed at cooperation and trade facilitation. Despite regional tensions, Turkey is attempting to maintain a neutral stance and promote unity, leveraging its historic ties with Somalia and emerging relationships with Ethiopia. The agreements signify a deeper commitment to regional stability and collaborative growth.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
