The Ankara Declaration marks a diplomatic achievement for Türkiye, facilitating an agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia to ease tensions over troop presence and Somaliland’s quest for recognition. Amidst rising regional tensions following Ethiopia’s controversial deal with Somaliland, Türkiye’s mediation has positioned it as a key player in enhancing stability and promoting dialogue in the Horn of Africa.
The Ankara Declaration has emerged as a significant diplomatic achievement for Türkiye, marking a pivotal shift in the dynamic relations between Ethiopia and Somalia amidst a historically contentious landscape in the Horn of Africa. Following Ethiopia’s controversial agreement with Somaliland for potential diplomatic recognition in January 2024, Somalia’s attempts to assert its territorial sovereignty led to regional tensions intensifying. Türkiye’s mediation resulted in the successful signing of the Ankara Declaration on December 11, easing critical bilateral tensions while addressing key issues surrounding Ethiopian troop presence in Somalia and Somaliland’s aspirations for international recognition.
The geopolitical ramifications of the Ethiopia-Somaliland deal raised alarms across regional and global powers, particularly concerning Somalia’s territorial integrity. The strategic significance of Somaliland’s Berbera port, crucial for landlocked Ethiopia, positioned it at the center of competing interests, including the United Arab Emirates’ investments and growing concerns from Egypt regarding water disputes with Ethiopia. Türkiye’s intervention not only facilitated dialogue between Ethiopia and Somalia but also underscored its expanding influence throughout the region.
Despite the challenges, the Ankara Declaration has created avenues for constructive engagement, allowing Ethiopian military participation in peacekeeping efforts while addressing prior concerns regarding Somaliland. With the Biden administration’s support for the Türkiye-brokered agreement, these collaborative efforts hold potential implications for broader stability in the Horn of Africa. As nations navigate the complexities of alignments and rivalries, the Ankara Declaration represents a critical step towards conflict resolution in a region often marred by discord.
The Horn of Africa has been a region marked by historical disputes and geopolitical complexities, particularly involving Somalia, Ethiopia, and Somaliland. The declaration of Somaliland’s aspiration for independence and the subsequent agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland for diplomatic recognition escalated tensions. Türkiye, with its strategic investments and military presence in Somalia, has sought to mediate and strengthen its diplomatic ties in the region. The possibilities of US recognition of Somaliland further complicate the situation, as international dynamics interplay with local aspirations for sovereignty and control of strategic ports.
The Ankara Declaration serves not only as a testament to Türkiye’s diplomatic prowess but also as a critical intervention in a region fraught with potential conflict. By addressing the contentious issues between Ethiopia and Somalia, the agreement lays a foundation for improved relations and cooperation. The endorsement by the Biden administration further legitimizes Türkiye’s role as a mediator in the Horn of Africa, highlighting the need for collaborative efforts to ensure stability amidst competing national interests.
Original Source: www.orfonline.org
