Turkey’s Diplomatic Efforts in Resolving Somalia-Ethiopia Tensions

Turkey is mediating tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia resulting from a controversial MoU signed between Somaliland and Ethiopia. The efforts come amidst Ethiopia’s internal conflicts and Somalia’s concerns regarding its sovereignty, with Turkey seeking to stabilize the region. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan articulated Turkey’s commitment to resolving issues beneficially. The situation remains complex, with significant challenges ahead due to entrenched positions on both sides.

Turkey is actively mediating diplomatic tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia, particularly following the controversial Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Somaliland and Ethiopia in January 2024. Turkey’s long-standing relationships with both nations bolster its credibility as a mediator. The country has invested significantly in Somalia, supporting state-building efforts and enhancing military capabilities, especially in the fight against al-Shabab. Similarly, Turkish support in Ethiopia has included military aid, which has proven beneficial in the conflicts involving Tigray. The ongoing talks in Ankara aim to alleviate tensions and maintain regional stability, yet they face immense challenges due to entrenched positions from both sides regarding their national security and territorial integrity. During the second round of talks, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasized Turkey’s commitment to resolving the issues at hand for the benefit of the entire region, stating, “As Türkiye, our goal is to address the existing concerns and resolve the issues in a way that will benefit not only Somalia and Ethiopia but the entire region.” However, the task of settling disputes regarding maritime boundaries is daunting, compounded by shifting regional dynamics influenced by external geopolitical interests. Ethiopia has been embroiled in significant internal conflict since Abiy Ahmed assumed the Premiership in 2018, initially celebrated for his reformist agenda. However, the rapid descent into violence, particularly in the Tigray region, has highlighted the complexities of Ethiopian politics, characterized by ethnic tensions and a legacy of oppression. The MoU with Somaliland, perceived as an encroachment on Somalia’s sovereignty, poses an acute challenge to ongoing diplomatic efforts. Ethiopia’s quest for maritime access—manifested through ambitions to establish a military base in the strategically vital Bab-el-Mandeb area—has alarmed Somalia, a nation already grappling with its own fragility. Indeed, Somalia’s government, under President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, appears to have reacted weakly to these provocations, further complicating the diplomatic landscape. To clearly navigate these tensions, Turkey must perform a balancing act in its mediations. The threat of military confrontation remains palpable as both nations position themselves defensively amidst escalating tensions. A successful resolution will entail strict adherence to international law and mediation protocols. Ethiopia’s aspirations for a military base are particularly contentious and counter to Somalia’s interests, as past attempts at imperial expansion in the region have failed. The ultimate goal should be fostering commercial solutions that serve the entire region rather than military posturing. As Turkey endeavors to mediate this complex situation, it encounters both geopolitical and legal challenges. Nonetheless, its commitment to thoughtful diplomacy remains unwavering, and it aspires to promote long-lasting stability in the Horn of Africa.

Turkey’s mediation efforts between Somalia and Ethiopia arise from a historical context marked by geopolitical rivalries and instability in the Horn of Africa. The recent diplomatic disagreements are rooted in a January 2024 MoU signed between the break-away region of Somaliland and Ethiopia, which has raised concerns regarding Somalia’s territorial integrity and national security. Turkey, having invested substantially in Somalia’s state-building and military enhancement, seeks to position itself as a neutral and effective mediator to reduce tensions and foster peace in the region. The complex ethnic diversity and ongoing conflicts within Ethiopia under Abiy Ahmed’s leadership fuel the urgency of these mediation efforts, as both Somalia and Ethiopia struggle with internal and external pressures associated with stability and sovereignty.

In conclusion, Turkey’s role as a mediator in the Somali-Ethiopian dispute is critical, given its established relationships and investment in both nations. The challenges are formidable, marked by strong nationalistic sentiments, territorial disputes, and the implications of the recent MoU between Somaliland and Ethiopia. While there remains potential for Turkey to facilitate understanding and resolution, the trajectory of peace will depend on the willingness of both Somalia and Ethiopia to engage constructively and navigate the intricacies of regional diplomacy without resorting to military confrontation. Turkey’s continued commitment to thoughtful and balanced mediation efforts is essential for fostering stability in this tumultuous region.

Original Source: www.dailysabah.com