Turkey is taking on a significant diplomatic role in the Horn of Africa and the Middle East, hosting crucial talks and exploring normalization of relations with neighboring countries. On August 12, 2024, Turkey is hosting a second round of talks between Ethiopia and Somalia in Ankara as part of the Ankara Process. This initiative, led by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, aims to ease tensions between the two Horn of Africa nations that have worsened since Ethiopia struck a deal with the breakaway region of Somaliland on January 1, 2023.The talks follow an initial round of direct discussions between the foreign ministers of Ethiopia and Somalia in early July. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has been actively involved in mediating the conflict, speaking with both Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali and Somali President Hasan Şeyh Mahmud. The Turkish government is seeking a compromise that takes into account the needs, concerns, and approaches of both countries.Simultaneously, Turkey is exploring the possibility of normalizing relations with Syria. Turkish Defense Minister Yaşar Güler stated that ministerial-level meetings between Turkey and Syria could be possible if ‘suitable conditions’ are created. However, Güler emphasized that Turkey would only consider withdrawing its troops from Syria after a new constitution is adopted, elections are held, and border security is ensured.Güler also addressed Turkey’s international alignments, stating that while Turkey aims to improve its ties with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), its priority remains fulfilling its obligations within NATO. He expressed satisfaction with the ongoing F-16 fighter jet deal with the US, stating that the project is proceeding as planned.
Key points
- Turkey is hosting a second round of talks between Ethiopia and Somalia on August 12, 2024, as part of the Ankara Process to ease tensions.
- Turkish Defense Minister Yaşar Güler outlined conditions for potential normalization of relations with Syria, including ministerial-level meetings and eventual troop withdrawal.
- Turkey maintains that its priority is fulfilling its NATO obligations while also seeking improved ties with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.
Contradictions👾While some sources state that the talks between Ethiopia and Somalia are part of the ‘Ankara Process’, others refer to it as efforts to resolve a ‘maritime access dispute’.
This discrepancy might be due to different interpretations or focuses of the talks.
