Turkey has enhanced its relationship with Somalia by deploying the energy research ship Oruc Reis, despite rising tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia that threaten Turkey’s investments. Mediation efforts by Ankara have stalled, particularly after Egypt’s defense pact with Somalia, complicating the situation further. Experts emphasize the need for international support to de-escalate the ongoing disputes, but Turkey currently lacks a new timeline for negotiations, facing growing regional tensions.
Turkey is enhancing its relations with Somalia through the deployment of the energy research vessel Oruc Reis, which is escorted by two Turkish naval ships. This move aligns with Turkey’s ongoing investments in the Horn of Africa, particularly in the energy sector. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s presence at the vessel’s launch underscores the significance of this development. Currently, Turkey’s relationship with Somalia includes various agreements, including defense and energy exploration pacts, necessitating cooperation between Somalia and Ethiopia. However, rising tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia pose a risk to Turkey’s interests. Ethiopia’s recent memorandum with Somaliland, which grants it coastal access, has exacerbated Somalia’s concerns regarding territorial integrity. Turkey has attempted to mediate between the two nations, but recent negotiations have been indefinitely delayed, particularly after Egypt signed a defense agreement with Somalia and resumed arms supplies. The complexities of the regional dynamics, including Egypt’s military engagement and historical tensions surrounding the Nile, challenge Turkey’s mediation efforts. Experts suggest that the ongoing disputes necessitate broader international involvement to facilitate de-escalation and resolve underlying rivalries. The current lack of scheduled negotiations for a Turkish-brokered agreement leaves Turkey in a precarious position amid escalating regional tensions.
The geopolitical landscape of the Horn of Africa has been complicated by historical conflicts and recent developments. Turkey has established significant ties with Somalia, evident in its military and diplomatic presence—including the largest embassy in the world located in Mogadishu and control over the port of Mogadishu by a Turkish company. The relationships with both Somalia and Ethiopia are crucial for Turkey, as they have signed multiple agreements over the past year regarding defense and energy. However, the increasing tension between Ethiopia and Somalia, particularly following a memorandum of understanding between Ethiopia and the separatist region of Somaliland, has undermined Turkey’s diplomatic efforts. Moreover, Egypt’s military support for Somalia adds further complexity to the situation, directly affecting the prospect of peace in the region.
In conclusion, Turkey is actively pursuing deeper ties with Somalia through significant investments and energy initiatives. Yet, the rising tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia, exacerbated by Egypt’s military involvement in support of Somalia, threaten these efforts. While Turkey continues to seek resolution through mediation, the postponement of negotiations and the complexity of regional rivalries signal that time is running short for Ankara to secure stability and protect its interests in the Horn of Africa.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
