Addis Ababa – Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan underscored Ankara’s commitment to stability in the Horn of Africa, warning against new conflicts as he concluded a visit to Ethiopia yesterday. The visit, focused on strengthening bilateral ties and addressing regional challenges, comes at a sensitive time for the region, marked by ongoing diplomatic tensions and fragile peace efforts.
Speaking alongside Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Erdoğan emphasized the need for cooperation and dialogue to resolve disputes, reiterating Turkey’s position that external interference can exacerbate existing problems. The Turkish president highlighted expanding economic cooperation with Ethiopia, encompassing infrastructure development, energy transmission, manufacturing, tourism, and other key sectors. This deepening partnership reflects Turkey’s growing engagement in East Africa, a region increasingly attracting international attention.
A key concern raised by Erdoğan was the potential for instability stemming from the possible recognition of Somaliland by Israel. He stated that such a move would not contribute positively to regional stability, signaling Ankara’s disapproval of any actions that could further complicate the already delicate political landscape. This position aligns with the broader African Union’s stance on maintaining the territorial integrity of Somalia, a member state.
Expanding Ties and Regional Mediation
The visit saw the signing of agreements aimed at bolstering economic cooperation between Turkey, and Ethiopia. Erdoğan highlighted the importance of these partnerships in fostering sustainable development and creating opportunities for both nations. He also welcomed the recent diplomatic engagement between Ethiopia and Somalia, acknowledging Turkey’s role in mediating efforts to ease tensions between the neighboring countries.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud signed the Ankara Declaration on December 11, 2024, during a trilateral meeting hosted by Erdoğan in Ankara, a move that signaled a significant thaw in relations. This declaration effectively ended tensions that had escalated when Ethiopia announced plans to develop a port in Somaliland, a self-declared independent state that Somalia considers an integral part of its territory. Mogadishu viewed Ethiopia’s move as a violation of its sovereignty.
Ethiopia’s initial proposal to officially recognize Somaliland’s independence in exchange for strategic access to the Red Sea corridor further deepened the rift. The Ankara Declaration represents a diplomatic breakthrough, facilitated by Turkey’s mediation efforts, and underscores the importance of regional dialogue in resolving complex disputes.
Cultural and Historical Connections
Beyond economic and political considerations, Erdoğan emphasized the strong cultural and historical ties between Turkey and Ethiopia. He referenced initiatives supported by the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) and educational programs run by the Maarif Foundation as evidence of Turkey’s commitment to reinforcing these bonds. These initiatives aim to promote people-to-people cooperation and foster a deeper understanding between the two nations.
The restoration of the Al-Nejashi Mosque, damaged during the two-year conflict in the Tigray region, was specifically highlighted as a symbol of this commitment. Erdoğan stated, “The Al-Nejashi Mosque in the village of Nejashi, known as the first Muslim settlement in Africa, is quite important in terms of our cultural ties. With the support of TIKA and the project involving restoration and renovation works, we have not only preserved a significant cultural heritage of African history but also strengthened the ancient bonds of friendship between us and Ethiopia.”
Ethiopia’s Pursuit of Sea Access
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, during discussions with Erdoğan, sought diplomatic support for Ethiopia’s efforts to secure access to the sea through peaceful means. He explained that limited logistics capacity and a lack of maritime access continue to pose significant constraints on Ethiopia’s economic growth. Abiy indicated that he and Erdoğan held candid conversations regarding Ankara’s potential role in facilitating a resolution to this long-standing issue.
Ethiopia, a landlocked nation since Eritrea gained independence in 1993, has been actively exploring options to gain access to ports in neighboring countries. The pursuit of a port in Somaliland sparked the recent tensions with Somalia, highlighting the complexities of regional geopolitics and the importance of finding mutually acceptable solutions.
Erdoğan’s visit to Ethiopia underscores Turkey’s growing role as a key diplomatic player in the Horn of Africa. By emphasizing the importance of dialogue, cooperation, and respect for sovereignty, Turkey is positioning itself as a mediator and partner for stability in a region facing numerous challenges. The ongoing mediation efforts and economic partnerships signal a long-term commitment to fostering peace and prosperity in East Africa.
Looking ahead, the success of the Ankara Declaration and continued diplomatic engagement will be crucial in maintaining stability in the region. Further discussions between Ethiopia, Somalia, and other stakeholders, potentially with Turkey’s continued facilitation, will be necessary to address the underlying issues and build a more peaceful and prosperous future for the Horn of Africa.
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