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Ankara Declaration: Turkey's Eight-Month Mediation Resolves Somalia-Ethiopia Dispute

Dec 12, 2024, 10:31 AM

Turkey has successfully mediated a resolution to the nearly year-long dispute between Somalia and Ethiopia over the Somaliland region. Following eight months of diplomatic efforts, the two countries agreed to the Ankara Declaration after talks hosted by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara. Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed attended a joint press conference where the agreement was announced. The dispute originated when Ethiopia signed a memorandum of understanding with the Somaliland region in January, seeking sea access, which led to tensions with Somalia. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan highlighted that "the trust in Turkey and the agreement achieved are a strong manifestation of our diplomacy that produces fair and sustainable solutions." The Ankara Declaration affirms mutual respect for each country's sovereignty and unity. The Intergovernmental Authority on Development and the African Union have welcomed the agreement, appreciating Turkey's mediation role. The European Union also expressed satisfaction with the resolution and Turkey's significant role.