Somalia and Ethiopia signed the Ankara Declaration on December 11, 2024, emphasizing mutual respect and commercial agreements. This move is seen as a strategic reaction to the potential U.S. recognition of Somaliland under President Trump’s administration. Somaliland’s push for independence faces opposition from Somalia, bolstered by military support from Egypt and Eritrea. The situation underscores the complexity of international recognition and regional stability.
On December 11, 2024, the Somali government, led by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, reached an agreement named the “Ankara Declaration” with Ethiopia, under President Abiy Ahmed. This accord emphasized mutual respect for sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, and included provisions for commercial arrangements that would afford Ethiopia secure maritime access under Somali authority.
Somalia’s decision to permit Ethiopia access to its ports seems to counter potential U.S. recognition of Somaliland’s sovereignty, especially with the election of Donald Trump for a second term. Following its own agreement with Ethiopia, Somaliland, a self-declared state, had alluded to trading military and commercial port facilities for recognition of its independence by Ethiopia.
The proposal to recognize Somaliland enjoys significant support among Trump’s advisors, as indicated in the Project 2025 report calling for such recognition to strengthen the U.S. position in the region. Prominent figures, including Stephen Miller and John Ratcliffe, who have been proposed for roles in the incoming administration, endorse recognition.
J. Peter Pham and Tibor Nagy, both associated with Trump’s foreign policy, have underscored Somaliland’s suitability as a partner for the U.S. while acknowledging its stable governance and progressive alignment. Nagy has argued that the notion of Somaliland being merely part of Somalia is inaccurate, suggesting that a changing U.S. administration could validate its aspirations for recognition.
President Abiy has strategically secured his goals without needing to endorse Somaliland, thereby avoiding conflicts with Somalia, which has garnered military support from Egypt and Eritrea. These countries, having their own tensions with Ethiopia, may intervene if hostilities arise. Therefore, it might be prudent for President Trump to refrain from engaging with Somaliland’s supporters, thereby maintaining stability in the strategically significant Horn of Africa.
The article discusses the geopolitical dynamics between Somalia and Ethiopia, particularly in the context of U.S. foreign policy changes following the election of Donald Trump. It delves into the historical context of Somaliland’s quest for recognition and the implications of the recent agreements made by Somalia and Ethiopia, addressing the regional ramifications of U.S. actions in the Horn of Africa.
In conclusion, the Ankara Declaration represents a significant shift in Somalia’s strategy in response to potential U.S. recognition of Somaliland. The alliance formed with Ethiopia without the acknowledgment of Somaliland seeks to preemptively address regional power dynamics, emphasizing the importance of American foreign policy in the area. The situation calls for careful consideration from U.S. leadership to avoid exacerbating tensions and destabilizing relations within the Horn of Africa region.
Original Source: www.eurasiareview.com
