Turkey plans to host discussions between Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to resolve disputes regarding Ethiopia’s desire for port access. The talks come in light of Ethiopia’s naval agreement with Somaliland, perceived as a threat to Somali sovereignty. Turkey maintains strong partnerships with both countries and aims to facilitate a resolution amid heightened tensions.
Turkey is preparing to facilitate discussions this week between Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, aimed at addressing a protracted dispute centered on Ethiopia’s interest in securing port access in the Horn of Africa. Reports indicate President Mohamud will engage directly with Prime Minister Ahmed during this diplomatic meeting. Though the Turkish Foreign Ministry has chosen not to comment, developments earlier this year point to tensions arising from Ethiopia’s naval agreement with Somaliland, an act perceived by Mogadishu as a challenge to its sovereignty.
In reaction to these escalating tensions, Turkey cemented its partnership with Somalia by formalizing a naval agreement, which envisions the establishment of a Somali navy and protection of its territorial waters. This agreement also underscores a burgeoning energy collaboration, evident from the arrival of Turkish energy exploration ships on the Somali coast. Observations indicate that relations between Ethiopia and Somalia are strained, with Somali officials contemplating military action should Ethiopia proceed with its naval accord with Somaliland.
Turkey’s previous hosting of two rounds of foreign ministerial talks highlights its commitment to facilitating dialogue between the two nations. While Turkish officials have noted incremental progress in negotiations, their relationship with Ethiopia has also been bolstered through military sales, particularly drones, which have strengthened Prime Minister Ahmed’s position during the civil unrest with Tigray forces.
The forthcoming discussions could signify a turning point, with speculation that Somalia may be willing to grant Ethiopia port access near their shared frontier, provided Ethiopia retracts its agreement with Somaliland. However, the political shift following Somaliland’s recent elections has introduced additional complexities, potentially altering negotiations with the new President, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, who is perceived as less sympathetic to Addis Ababa’s interests. Should the talks advance constructively, observers within Ankara suggest the involvement of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan could be influential in achieving a favorable resolution.
The diplomatic relationship between Somalia and Ethiopia has historically been fraught with tension, particularly in the context of territorial and sovereignty disputes. Recently, Ethiopia signed a naval agreement with Somaliland, a breakaway region that Somalia does not recognize, prompting concern over Somali sovereignty. Turkey has established itself as a key player in the region, having developed strong security ties with Somalia and a commitment to fostering dialogue between the two nations, which has included agreements supporting naval capabilities and energy partnerships. The ongoing negotiations reflect an intricate geopolitical landscape characterized by historical animosities and contemporary alliances.
In summary, Turkey’s imminent hosting of talks between Somali and Ethiopian leaders represents a critical effort to mediate and potentially resolve ongoing disputes regarding sovereignty and naval access in the Horn of Africa. The context of these discussions is augmented by historical tensions and recent events that may impact the negotiations. The outcome could redefine regional dynamics, emphasizing Turkey’s role as a mediator in African affairs.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
