Erdogan to Visit Ethiopia and Somalia in Early 2025 Following Ankara Declaration
Turkish President Erdoğan plans to visit Ethiopia and Somalia in early 2025 after signing the Ankara Declaration. The agreement focuses on mutual respect for sovereignty, addressing previous tensions, and promoting collaborative economic and security measures. Supported by international entities, this initiative signifies a commitment to rebuilding strong relations between the two nations.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has declared his intention to visit Ethiopia and Somalia in January or February 2025, following the signing of the Ankara Declaration on December 11, 2024. Erdoğan announced this plan during a speech in Erzurum, Turkey, emphasizing that the agreement was finalized after an extensive seven-hour meeting between himself, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, and Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. This declaration emphasizes respect for each nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity while recognizing the potential benefits for Ethiopia’s access to maritime resources.
The Ankara Declaration aims to foster collaboration between Ethiopia and Somalia, especially in addressing past disputes, notably concerning Ethiopia’s prior memorandum with Somaliland, which had strained relations. Erdoğan noted the importance of his strong relationship with Prime Minister Ahmed, asserting that Türkiye intends to bolster economic and defense support for both nations. The agreement additionally speaks to technical negotiations regarding Ethiopia’s maritime access, scheduled to commence by February 2025.
The declaration has garnered support from significant international bodies, including the African Union, the United States, and the United Kingdom, as it seeks to rectify earlier tensions and encourage cooperative efforts in the region. The move reflects a significant step towards peace and collaboration, underscoring Türkiye’s commitment to aid Somalia through investments and counter-terrorism initiatives, as well as acknowledging Ethiopia’s military contributions in the fight against terrorism in Somalia.
In conclusion, Erdoğan’s upcoming visit signals a potentially transformative era in the diplomatic relations between Ethiopia and Somalia, highlighting Türkiye’s unwavering support for both nations. The Ankara Declaration sets the groundwork for future cooperation, aiming not only to resolve past conflicts but also to pave the way for mutual benefits and stability in the region.
The announcement of Erdoğan’s visit is rooted in the recent Ankara Declaration designed to enhance diplomatic relations among Turkey, Ethiopia, and Somalia. This agreement comes in the wake of rising tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia triggered by Ethiopia’s dealings with Somaliland, which led to allegations of infringing on Somalia’s territorial rights. By recognizing each country’s sovereignty and advocating for renewed cooperation, the Ankara Declaration aims to address these historical grievances and foster a united front in tackling regional challenges, including terrorism and economic cooperation.
In summary, President Erdoğan’s planned visit to Ethiopia and Somalia in early 2025 marks a significant diplomatic engagement aimed at rebuilding relations following recent tensions. The Ankara Declaration serves as a critical framework for future cooperation, emphasizing mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, while also addressing vital economic and security concerns. This initiative has received international backing, indicating a collective desire to stabilize and enhance the prospect of peace and prosperity in the region.
Original Source: addisstandard.com
