Türkiye’s Communications Director Fahrettin Altun praised the Ethiopian-Somalian agreement as a success of Türkiye’s peace diplomacy, emphasizing its significance for African geopolitics. He also discussed the Syrian crisis as crucial for Türkiye, highlighting the humanitarian challenges and the country’s ongoing commitment to stability and unity in the region.
Türkiye’s Communications Director Fahrettin Altun has commended the recent agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia, calling it a clear example of Türkiye’s commitment to peace diplomacy. Speaking about the Ankara Declaration, which was facilitated by Türkiye, he highlighted its long-term implications for both African geopolitics and regional stability. “This was a conflict rooted in regional geopolitics with inevitable global repercussions… By addressing their concerns and bringing them to the negotiating table, this process was realized,” noted Altun. He emphasized that the achievement resulted from persistent diplomatic efforts, spearheaded by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and the Turkish Foreign Ministry.
The meeting in Ankara included Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somalian President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, leading to a reaffirmation of mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, as stated by Türkiye’s Communications Directorate. The backdrop of this diplomatic effort relates to tensions ignited by Ethiopia’s recent pact with Somaliland for port access, which heightened disputes with Somalia. Türkiye has actively sought to alleviate such tensions.
Additionally, Altun addressed the pressing crisis in Syria, labeling it a critical issue for Türkiye. He expressed concern over the humanitarian impact of the 13-year conflict, stating that Türkiye has become a primary refugee host. Furthermore, he condemned the rise of xenophobic sentiments targeting refugees within Türkiye, which some political entities have exploited. Altun articulated Türkiye’s dedication to maintaining Syria’s territorial integrity while simultaneously combatting terrorism that threatens regional stability.
The geopolitical complexities surrounding Syria were further illustrated when anti-regime factions seized control of Damascus, leading to the exodus of Bashar Assad and his family. This shift marks a significant turning point in a conflict that has persisted since 1963, underscoring Türkiye’s critical role in the ongoing humanitarian crisis and its commitment to regional peace efforts.
The agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia, facilitated by Türkiye, emerges from a history of tensions and conflicting interests in the Horn of Africa. The relationship was strained further when Ethiopia reached an agreement with Somaliland about port access, igniting disputes with Somalia. This backdrop emphasizes Türkiye’s strategic role and its efforts to mediate peace in the region. Additionally, the ongoing civil war in Syria has posed significant humanitarian and political challenges that Türkiye has had to navigate, as it seeks to balance regional stability with the influx of refugees.
In summary, Türkiye’s mediation in the Ethiopian-Somali agreement highlights its commitment to fostering peace in Africa. Communication Director Fahrettin Altun articulated the depth of this diplomatic achievement while also addressing the ongoing turmoil in Syria, reaffirming Türkiye’s vital role in regional stability. Moving forward, Türkiye aims to sustain its diplomatic efforts in both situations, emphasizing the importance of cooperation and peace among nations.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
