Turkey has once again stepped into the role of mediator in an attempt to resolve the ongoing dispute between Ethiopia and Somalia over the former's agreement with Somaliland. The second round of talks, held in Ankara on August 12, 2024, aimed to address the tensions that have been simmering since January of this year.
The core of the conflict stems from Ethiopia's memorandum of understanding with Somaliland, a breakaway region of Somalia. This agreement would grant Ethiopia, the world's most populous landlocked nation with over 120 million inhabitants, a 20-kilometer stretch of coastline for establishing a marine force base. In exchange, Ethiopia would recognize Somaliland's independence, a move that has deeply angered Somalia.
Somalia's government vehemently opposes this arrangement, viewing it as a violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity. The situation has escalated to the point where Somalia has expressed readiness to engage in military conflict to prevent the deal's implementation.
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan conducted separate meetings with his Ethiopian counterpart, Taye Atske Selassie, and Somali Foreign Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi. These discussions, known as proximity talks, involved Turkish officials shuttling between the two parties, as direct face-to-face negotiations did not occur.
Fidan has proposed a potential solution that would ensure Ethiopia's sea access through Somalia, while Ethiopia would acknowledge Somalia's territorial integrity and political sovereignty. This proposal aims to address the core issues at the heart of the dispute.
"I encourage a peaceful resolution to the ongoing dispute between Ethiopia and Somalia."
Erdogan, who has been actively working to increase Turkey's influence in Africa, personally engaged in the matter by holding separate phone calls with the leaders of Somalia and Ethiopia on August 11, urging a peaceful resolution.
Turkey's involvement in this dispute is part of its broader strategy to expand its diplomatic and economic presence in Africa, a policy it has been pursuing since the early 2000s. The country has established strong ties with Somalia, recently signing agreements for cooperation in defense and oil and gas exploration. Additionally, Turkey maintains significant economic and trade relations with Ethiopia.
The Horn of Africa's strategic importance, due to its proximity to major shipping lanes, has attracted increased international attention. This dispute over Somaliland's status, ongoing for over three decades, highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics in the region.
As the talks continue, the international community watches closely, hoping for a peaceful resolution that respects the sovereignty of all parties involved while addressing the economic needs of landlocked Ethiopia.