Türkiye Mediates Historic Reconciliation Between Somalia and Ethiopia

In a world often marked by conflict and division, moments of reconciliation remind us of the enduring potential for diplomacy to resolve even the most entrenched disputes. One such moment unfolded recently in Ankara, where Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced what he termed a "historic reconciliation" between Somalia and Ethiopia. The resolution of a nearly year-long bitter dispute between the two nations signals a new chapter in regional relations and underscores Türkiye’s growing influence as a mediator in global politics.

The announcement followed extensive peace talks facilitated by Ankara. Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, the principal stakeholders in the negotiations, showed exceptional dedication in bridging their differences. This achievement, formalized as the Ankara Declaration, resolves tensions centered around the contested Somaliland region and lays the groundwork for enhanced cooperation and mutual prosperity.

Long History of Conflict
The modern borders of Ethiopia and Somalia were largely shaped by colonial powers, creating disputes that escalated after both nations gained independence. The first significant conflict between the two occurred in 1964, soon after Somalia’s independence. This centered on the Ogaden region, which Somalia claimed based on ethnic ties and invaded in 1977. Although Ethiopia reclaimed Ogaden in 1978, tensions persisted, with both nations supporting insurgent movements within each other’s territories, further destabilizing the area.

The fall of Somali President Siad Barre’s authoritarian regime in 1991 plunged Somalia into civil war and chaos, creating an opportunity for Ethiopian intervention. Ethiopia justified its involvement as a matter of national security. In 2006, it launched a military campaign to oust the Islamic Courts Union (ICU), a coalition of Sharia courts controlling much of southern Somalia. This intervention, backed by the United States, faced strong opposition from various Somali groups. A significant consequence of this was the rise of al-Shabaab, a militant Islamist group, which further complicated the conflict and drew in international actors. This development led to continuous military efforts by the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) and other forces. Ethiopia has engaged in numerous operations against al-Shabaab, acting both independently and as part of AMISOM.

The prolonged conflict has had devastating humanitarian effects, displacing millions and leaving many in urgent need of aid.

Türkiye’s Strategic Role in Peacebuilding

Türkiye’s role as a mediator in this reconciliation effort reflects a deliberate and strategic foreign policy approach. Over the past two decades, Ankara has positioned itself as a key partner for African nations through robust economic investments, humanitarian aid, and cultural exchanges. This mediation effort aligns with Türkiye’s broader goals of fostering stability and development in Africa, a region increasingly central to its international strategy.

Erdogan, addressing a joint press conference alongside Mohamud and Ahmed, emphasized the importance of the agreement as a step toward lasting peace. "We have taken the first step toward a new beginning based on peace and cooperation between Somalia and Ethiopia," he declared. He also highlighted Ankara’s "fundamental expectation" of fostering stability in this geopolitically significant region, often referred to as the Horn of Africa.

The Context of the Dispute
The root of the conflict lies in Ethiopia’s engagement with Somaliland, a self-declared independent region that Somalia views as an integral part of its territory. On January 1, Ethiopia entered into an agreement with Somaliland to utilize its Red Sea port of Berbera, a move that Somalia perceived as a direct challenge to its sovereignty.

Ethiopia’s interest in the Berbera port is not arbitrary. The country, landlocked since Eritrea’s independence in 1991, has faced significant logistical challenges in conducting maritime trade. Dependence on neighboring Djibouti for port access has imposed economic constraints on Ethiopia, driving its search for alternative routes. Somaliland, with its strategic location along the Red Sea, offers an attractive solution to Ethiopia’s maritime challenges.

For Somalia, however, the issue is far more than economic. Recognizing Somaliland’s agreements with external parties could be seen as legitimizing its claims of independence, potentially setting a precedent for other breakaway regions. This delicate interplay of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and economic necessity created a flashpoint that threatened to destabilize the region.

The Ankara Declaration: A Path to Resolution

The Ankara Declaration represents a balanced and thoughtful approach to addressing the concerns of both nations. Among its key provisions are-

1. Technical Negotiations: Somalia and Ethiopia will initiate technical negotiations facilitated by Türkiye in February 2025. These discussions, expected to conclude within four months, aim to establish a practical framework for cooperation.
2. Respect for Sovereignty: Both nations have reaffirmed their commitment to Somalia’s territorial integrity, addressing one of the primary concerns of Mogadishu.
3. Economic Collaboration: The agreement recognizes Ethiopia’s legitimate need for maritime access while emphasizing mutually beneficial solutions that do not compromise Somalia’s sovereignty.

This dual focus on sovereignty and economic cooperation highlights the nuanced diplomacy involved in crafting the agreement. By addressing the core concerns of both parties, the Ankara Declaration creates a foundation for trust and collaboration.

Türkiye’s Growing Influence in Africa

Türkiye’s mediation in the Somalia-Ethiopia dispute is part of a broader strategy to expand its influence across Africa. Over the past decade, Ankara has deepened its ties with the continent through a combination of trade, investment, and humanitarian initiatives. The Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) and other organizations have played a pivotal role in building infrastructure, supporting education, and providing medical aid in African countries.

This multifaceted engagement has elevated Türkiye’s profile as a partner of choice for many African nations. By stepping into the role of a mediator, Türkiye not only enhances its diplomatic credentials but also reinforces its commitment to peace and development in Africa.

Somalia and Ethiopia: Perspectives on Reconciliation

For Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, the agreement signifies a new era of cooperation with Ethiopia. Speaking at the press conference, he expressed gratitude for Türkiye’s role in facilitating the talks and reaffirmed Somalia’s commitment to regional stability. "Our countries have always been, and will always remain, true friends," Mohamud remarked, highlighting the historical ties that bind the two nations.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed echoed these sentiments, describing the talks as a "family dialogue" that produced a "win-win" outcome. For Ahmed, the agreement is not just about resolving a specific dispute but about creating a framework for broader collaboration. He commended Türkiye for fostering an atmosphere of mutual respect and trust, essential for meaningful dialogue.

The Historical Significance of Ethiopia’s Landlocked Status

Ethiopia’s quest for maritime access is deeply rooted in its modern history. The Eritrean War of Independence, which spanned three decades (1961-1991), resulted in Eritrea’s secession from Ethiopia and the latter’s loss of Red Sea ports. Since then, Ethiopia has been landlocked, relying on Djibouti for most of its maritime trade.

While Ethiopia has achieved remarkable economic growth despite these challenges, the lack of direct access to the sea remains a strategic vulnerability. The agreement with Somaliland to use the Berbera port was an attempt to mitigate this issue, but it inadvertently triggered tensions with Somalia. The Ankara Declaration provides a pathway to address these competing interests in a manner that benefits both nations.

Regional Implications of the Reconciliation
The reconciliation between Somalia and Ethiopia holds significant implications for the Horn of Africa, a region often plagued by conflict and instability. By resolving their differences, the two nations set a precedent for peaceful conflict resolution, offering a model for other countries in the region.

Furthermore, the agreement could catalyze economic integration between Somalia and Ethiopia. Collaborative projects, particularly in infrastructure and trade, could unlock new opportunities for growth and development. For example, Ethiopia’s access to Somali ports could enhance regional trade networks, while Somalia could benefit from Ethiopian investment and expertise.

Türkiye’s Vision for Peace and Prosperity

For Türkiye, the reconciliation effort aligns with its broader vision of fostering peace and prosperity in strategic regions. Erdogan’s government has consistently emphasized the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in addressing global challenges. The Somalia-Ethiopia agreement serves as a testament to Türkiye’s capacity to facilitate meaningful negotiations and achieve tangible outcomes.

Moreover, this success bolsters Türkiye’s image as a global peacemaker. By mediating in high-stakes disputes, Türkiye demonstrates its commitment to upholding international norms and fostering stability. This role is particularly significant in a multipolar world where traditional powers often struggle to address complex regional conflicts.

Challenges and Opportunities
While the Ankara Declaration marks a significant achievement, its success will depend on the implementation of its provisions. The technical negotiations scheduled for 2025 will be crucial in translating the agreement into actionable outcomes. Türkiye’s role as a facilitator will be vital in ensuring that these discussions remain productive and focused on mutual benefits.

Additionally, both Somalia and Ethiopia will need to navigate domestic political dynamics that could influence their commitment to the agreement. For Somalia, maintaining territorial integrity while accommodating Ethiopia’s economic interests will require careful balancing. Similarly, Ethiopia must address internal and external pressures as it seeks to enhance its maritime access.

Conclusion
The historic reconciliation between Somalia and Ethiopia, brokered by Türkiye, represents a triumph of diplomacy and dialogue. By addressing complex issues such as sovereignty and economic cooperation, the Ankara Declaration lays the groundwork for a new era of peace and collaboration in the Horn of Africa.

Türkiye’s role in facilitating this agreement underscores its growing influence as a mediator in international conflicts. As Somalia and Ethiopia embark on a journey of reconciliation, the agreement holds the promise of transforming the region into a hub of stability and prosperity.

This landmark achievement serves as a reminder of the power of diplomacy to bridge divides and build a more cooperative and peaceful world. Through initiatives like these, Türkiye continues to demonstrate its commitment to fostering global stability, reaffirming its role as a bridge-builder in an increasingly fragmented international landscape.