Turkey is strengthening its ties with Somalia and Ethiopia via political agreements signed by its ruling AKP party, aimed at enhancing strategic cooperation and bilateral trade. The Akp’s actions emphasize Turkey’s neutral stance as a mediator in regional tensions while securing military and infrastructural partnerships. Future agreements with Djibouti are also in the works, reflecting Turkey’s deeper engagement in the Horn of Africa.
Turkey is enhancing its strategic partnerships with Somalia and Ethiopia through two separate political agreements initiated by its ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP). On Wednesday, the AKP’s deputy chairman, Zafer Sirakaya, signed a memorandum of understanding in Ankara with the secretary-general of Somalia’s ruling Union for Peace and Development Party (UPD), Abdurahman Mohamed Hussein, aimed at fostering closer cooperation between their parties. A similar agreement is expected to be formalized with Ethiopia’s Prosperity Party in Addis Ababa on Friday.
These agreements are intended to promote collaborative endeavors such as joint research, training, and information sharing, reflecting Turkey’s desire to share its governance experience and bolster civil society between the nations. The AKP’s longstanding rule in Turkey is utilized to solidify these ties, which aim to increase bilateral trade as well.
Turkey has taken a neutral stance between Somalia and Ethiopia, acting as a mediator amidst rising tensions in the Horn of Africa, particularly following Ethiopia’s naval agreement with the self-declared Republic of Somaliland in 2024. Initially, Turkey had planned to sign the cooperation agreement with Ethiopia earlier but postponed to avoid the appearance of bias.
The signing of a December memorandum, following lengthy negotiations, affirmed Somalia’s territorial integrity while facilitating discussions on Ethiopia’s access to the Somali coast, resolving a major dispute but leaving some tensions unresolved, particularly as Somalia strengthens ties with Egypt amid Nile resource conflicts. Tunc Demirtas, a regional expert, emphasized Turkey’s regional perspective, underscoring the inclusion of Somalia in every diplomatic process initiated by Ankara.
Further agreements are anticipated, including one with Djibouti next week, as the AKP seeks to extend its influence in the region. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s rapport with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has been bolstered by Turkey’s military support, notably the sale of armed drones that assisted Ethiopia in combat situations.
Turkey’s relationship with Somalia is particularly deep and historically solid, characterized by significant military presence and infrastructural investments in the country. Earlier this year, Somalia secured a defense and economic cooperation agreement with Turkey, permitting the establishment and training of a Somali Navy, thereby enhancing national security and energy exploration activities along the coast.
This article addresses Turkey’s strategic diplomatic efforts to strengthen its ties with Somalia and Ethiopia, two pivotal nations in East Africa. Amid a complex regional backdrop, Turkey has pursued agreements to bolster cooperation, trade, and mutual political support while navigating sensitive geopolitical dynamics. The agreements reflect Turkey’s ambition to exert influence in the Horn of Africa and underscore its mediation role amidst regional tensions, further solidifying its partnerships through military and infrastructure ventures.
In summary, Turkey is taking significant steps to deepen its relationships with Somalia and Ethiopia through intentional political agreements designed to enhance bilateral cooperation and trade. By situating itself as a mediator in regional disputes, Turkey aims to bolster its influence in the Horn of Africa while fostering collaborative governance. These efforts illustrate Turkey’s commitment to playing a vital role in enhancing stability and security in the region.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
