Ankara Declaration: A Pivotal Step Towards Peace in the Horn of Africa
The Ankara Declaration between Ethiopia and Somalia, brokered by Türkiye, represents a significant diplomatic advancement for Africa amid ongoing tensions. Will Brown from the European Council praised Türkiye’s growing role, noting its appeal to African nations compared to European responses. The agreement aims to foster peace and cooperation in the Horn of Africa, emphasizing mutual respect among the involved nations.
The Ankara Declaration, the agreement reached between Ethiopia and Somalia, has been recognized as a significant development for Africa by Will Brown, a senior fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations. Facilitated by Türkiye, this agreement symbolizes a change amid a turbulent year in the Horn of Africa. Brown highlighted Türkiye’s ascendant role in the region, citing its dynamic trade relationships and defense collaboration as factors distinguishing it on the African continent.
Brown remarked that the developments in Ankara could be monumental, stating, “The news coming out of Ankara is potentially huge.” He noted that African countries are increasingly drawn to engage with Türkiye rather than navigating the complexities of European relations, despite Europe being Africa’s most significant trading partner. While acknowledging European efforts to elevate Africa’s global influence, he criticized many European officials for their outdated perceptions of the continent, viewing it merely as a site for aid rather than as a land of opportunities and innovative youth.
In addition, Brown pointed out Europe’s diminished concentration on Africa due to the pressures stemming from the Ukraine-Russia conflict. He elaborated on Türkiye’s intensified involvement in the Horn of Africa, attributing its influence to new trade links and its significant presence in Somalia, highlighted by the popularity of its Bayraktar drones. The European Commission’s forthcoming report will further reflect Türkiye’s diplomatic engagement in conflicts such as those in Somalia and Sudan.
The existing tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia ignited in January when Ethiopia established a partnership with Somaliland, a self-declared region in Somalia, regarding the utilization of the Red Sea port of Berbera. Türkiye has since sought to mediate and ease these strains. The Ankara Declaration was formalized during negotiations presided over by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, alongside Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. Erdogan stated, “We have taken the first step toward a new beginning based on peace and cooperation between Somalia and Ethiopia.”
In their joint declaration, the leaders of Ethiopia and Somalia reiterated their dedication to each other’s sovereignty, unity, and independence, underscoring compliance with international law and principles outlined in the UN Charter and the African Union’s constitutive act.
The Ankara Declaration emerged amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Horn of Africa, especially following Ethiopia’s controversial agreement with Somaliland. Türkiye’s diplomatic involvement reflects its strategic aim to enhance its influence in the region through trade and military engagement. With a backdrop of declining European focus on Africa due to the ongoing Ukraine conflict, Türkiye’s role as a mediator appears increasingly vital. This context accentuates the significance of the Ankara Declaration as a potential catalyst for stability and cooperation in East Africa.
In conclusion, the Ankara Declaration signifies a pivotal moment of potential cooperation between Ethiopia and Somalia, with Türkiye emerging as an influential mediator. As conflicts in the Horn of Africa continue, the engagement from Türkiye offers an alternative diplomatic approach that contrasts with traditional European relations. By recognizing and addressing the sovereign interests of both nations, this agreement may set a precedent for future collaborative efforts in the region.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
