President Erdoğan is scheduled to visit Ethiopia and Somalia in early 2025 following a deal that ended prolonged tensions between the two nations. The agreement, brokered by Erdoğan, was reached during talks between leaders of Ethiopia and Somalia, aimed at resolving disputes stemming from Ethiopia’s engagement with Somaliland, with international backing for these mediation efforts. This visit signifies a potential pathway to improved regional relations.
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan is set to visit Ethiopia and Somalia in early 2025 following a significant diplomatic achievement that helped to resolve prolonged tensions between the two nations. During a recent address in Erzurum, Erdoğan confirmed, “I will visit Ethiopia and Somalia in the first two months of the new year,” highlighting a pivotal agreement reached between Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in Ankara. The discussions, which culminated in a historic bring-together of sides, aimed at addressing disputes that originated from Ethiopia’s lease of coastal access from Somaliland, sparking concerns over Somalia’s sovereignty. Erdoğan’s mediation efforts were underscored throughout the negotiations, illustrating Türkiye’s integral role in fostering peace in the region.
The diplomatic strife between Ethiopia and Somalia intensified when Ethiopia engaged in a controversial deal with Somaliland, a region that is not recognized by the Somali government. This engagement raised alarms regarding regional stability and sovereignty issues. As tensions mounted, Ankara facilitated dialogue attempts throughout 2023, joining forces with both governments to defuse the escalating situation. The successful negotiations were met with international support from bodies such as the African Union and partners in Washington and Brussels, illustrating both the global stakes and the regional importance of Ethiopian and Somali relations.
In summary, President Erdoğan’s upcoming visit to Ethiopia and Somalia is a testament to the successful diplomatic resolution brokered by Türkiye, amidst a contentious backdrop concerning sovereignty and territorial integrity. This landmark agreement could potentially pave the way for more stable relations in the Horn of Africa, showcasing Türkiye’s growing influence in mediating complex international disputes. The commitment to resolving longstanding issues is crucial for the stability of the region, with Erdoğan emphasizing the significance of goodwill and cooperation in fostering lasting peace.
Original Source: www.dailysabah.com
