Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan plans to visit Ethiopia and Somalia in early 2025, following the signing of the Ankara Declaration. This agreement emphasizes cooperation, respect for sovereignty, and mutual benefits, particularly regarding Ethiopia’s access to the sea. The declaration aims to mend previously strained relations and is endorsed by various international bodies.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has announced a forthcoming visit to both Ethiopia and Somalia, scheduled between January and February 2025. This announcement follows the signing of the Ankara Declaration on December 11, 2024, during a high-level meeting that included Erdoğan, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, and Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. The declaration emphasizes mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity between the three nations, alongside plans for cooperation in various sectors, including economic development and security.
In his remarks, President Erdoğan described the lengthy negotiations leading to the agreement, stating, “Thanks to their cooperation, we signed the deal and finalized the job.” He expressed confidence in the future collaborative efforts that will benefit both countries. The Ankara Declaration is particularly significant as it highlights Ethiopia’s need for assured sea access and recognizes Somalia’s territorial integrity, aiming to set aside previous tensions.
Additionally, the leaders committed to technical discussions regarding Ethiopia’s sea access that are expected to commence by February 2025. The infrastructure for commercial arrangements will also be established while underscoring Somalia’s sovereignty.
This agreement arrives after a period of strained relations stemming from Ethiopia’s prior decision to lease coastal territory to Somaliland, a move viewed by Mogadishu as undermining its sovereignty. The announcement of the declaration has garnered support from major international actors, including the African Union, the United States, and the United Kingdom. Overall, this agreement marks a renewed commitment to strengthening ties and fostering collaboration between Ethiopia and Somalia under Turkish facilitation.
The Ankara Declaration follows a complex backdrop of diplomatic relations between Ethiopia and Somalia. Early in 2024, tensions escalated due to Ethiopia’s arrangement with Somaliland, asserting its independence claim, which was strongly opposed by Somalia. This created a rift as both nations have historically shared cultural and political ties. The recent declaration hopes to restore cooperation, aiming to secure benefits for both countries while addressing contentious historical issues. Erdoğan’s leadership role underscores Turkey’s strategic interest in the Horn of Africa, especially given its investments in Somalia and broader military support in the region. The agreement is significant, marking a shift in how regional powers negotiate their interactions. By reaffirming sovereignty and independence among the signatories, the Ankara Declaration stands as a crucial step towards promoting political stability in Somalia and fostering Ethiopia’s economic aspirations.
In conclusion, President Erdoğan’s planned visit to Ethiopia and Somalia signals a pivotal moment in regional diplomacy, fostering renewed cooperation under the Ankara Declaration. By emphasizing mutual respect for sovereignty and initiating constructive dialogue over contentious issues, this agreement aims to stabilize relations and facilitate economic collaboration. The international community’s support further underscores the declaration’s importance and potential impacts on the Horn of Africa’s geopolitical landscape.
Original Source: addisstandard.com
