Somalia’s Strategic Diplomacy: The Ankara Declaration and the Somaliland Question
The Somali-Ethiopian “Ankara Declaration” reflects Somalia’s strategic response to concerns about potential U.S. recognition of Somaliland. By granting Ethiopia access to its ports, Somalia seeks to assert its sovereignty and counteract regional geopolitical shifts under the incoming Trump administration. This development highlights the complexities of international diplomacy and the delicate balance of power in the Horn of Africa.
On December 11, 2024, the Somali government, led by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, reached an agreement known as the “Ankara Declaration” with Ethiopia’s President Abiy Ahmed. This agreement, facilitated by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan of Turkey, emphasizes both nations’ commitment to uphold each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Furthermore, it allows Ethiopia sustainable access to the sea via Somali ports through mutually beneficial commercial agreements.
Somalia’s willingness to provide Ethiopia access to port facilities may be strategically motivated by concerns regarding the potential recognition of Somaliland’s sovereignty by the incoming Trump administration. Somaliland had previously established a memorandum with Ethiopia promising military and commercial support in exchange for recognition from Ethiopia of its independence. This development compelled Somalia to urgently seal maritime agreements to counteract this perceived threat to its territorial claims.
Supporters of Donald Trump have strongly endorsed the recognition of Somaliland, viewing it as a strategic response to American interests in the region. The Project 2025 report, produced by conservative organizations, advocates for U.S. recognition of Somaliland to strengthen its position against China’s influence in Djibouti. Key figures from Trump’s first term have already expressed their support for this recognition, suggesting that it could become a reality depending on subsequent political developments.
Others, such as former officials, have described Somaliland as a credible partner for the U.S. and argue for its recognition as a fully independent state. They highlight Somaliland’s democratic governance and self-sufficiency as reasons justifying U.S. acknowledgment. In contrast, they assert that the notion of Somaliland remaining a part of Somalia is misleading and unsupported by contemporary realities.
Despite the pressures surrounding the recognition discourse, Ethiopia seems to have secured its objectives without conceding to Somaliland or inciting conflict with Somalia, which possesses support from regional backers including Egypt and Eritrea. As tensions rise, experts recommend that the U.S. approach Somaliland’s situation delicately to avoid destabilizing regional dynamics, particularly under the incoming administration.
This article examines the dynamics surrounding the recent agreement between Somalia and Ethiopia amidst the political implications of the Trump administration’s potential recognition of Somaliland. The historical context of Somalia’s territorial disputes and the international interests in East Africa play a significant role in these developments. The emergence of Somaliland as a self-declared independent state has increased sensitivities regarding sovereignty in the region, particularly as it seeks to enhance its geopolitical standing with external partners like Ethiopia.
In summary, the Ankara Declaration signifies Somalia’s strategic move to assert its territorial claims and secure its relationship with Ethiopia in light of potential shifts in U.S. policy under Trump. The article underscores the complexity of international diplomacy in the Horn of Africa, with Somaliland’s sovereignty struggles at its forefront. As regional alliances and tensions evolve, U.S. foreign policy will need to navigate these intricate landscapes judiciously.
Original Source: www.eurasiareview.com
