What is Ethiopia intent to engage Turkey in access to costal area of Somalia and Somaliland?
Introduction
Ethiopia’s intent to engage Turkey in gaining access to the coastal areas of Somalia and Somaliland is multifaceted and driven by strategic and economic considerations.
Background
Ethiopia, as a landlocked country, has long sought reliable access to the sea to boost its economic prospects and reduce its dependence on neighboring countries for maritime trade. This pursuit led to a controversial agreement with Somaliland in January 2024, which aimed to grant Ethiopia port access through Somaliland’s coastline for 50 years.
Turkey’s Mediation Role
Turkey has emerged as a key mediator in the dispute between Ethiopia and Somalia, hosting several rounds of negotiations throughout 2024. This culminated in the Ankara Declaration on December 11, 2024, which aimed to resolve the tensions between the two countries.
Ethiopia’s Intentions
Secure Sea Access
Ethiopia’s primary goal is to obtain “reliable, secure, and sustainable access to and from the sea” for commercial purposes. This access is crucial for Ethiopia’s economic development and reducing its reliance on Djibouti for maritime trade.
Diplomatic Solution
By engaging Turkey as a mediator, Ethiopia seeks to find a diplomatic solution to its maritime access needs while avoiding conflict with Somalia.
Regional Stability
Ethiopia aims to maintain regional stability while pursuing its strategic interests, as evidenced by its willingness to participate in Turkish-mediated talks.
Alternative to Somaliland Deal
The agreement brokered by Turkey provides Ethiopia with an alternative to its controversial deal with Somaliland, potentially allowing it to achieve its objectives without compromising Somalia’s territorial integrity.
Implications
The Ankara Declaration stipulates that technical delegations from Ethiopia and Somalia will begin negotiations by February 2025 to finalize “mutually advantageous commercial arrangements”.
Ethiopia may need to reconsider or pause its agreement with Somaliland in light of the new deal with Somalia.
The involvement of Turkey has added a new dimension to the geopolitics of the Horn of Africa, potentially increasing Turkey’s influence in the region.
Conclusion
While the Ankara Declaration has reduced tensions, challenges remain in implementing the agreement and addressing the complex dynamics of the region. The success of this arrangement will depend on continued diplomatic efforts and the ability of all parties to navigate the intricate political landscape of the Horn of Africa.
Knowing Turkeys background and role played in global politics, Turkey is a proven biased nations towards their own interest only. Please do expWhile the Ankara Declaration has mitigated tensions, challenges persist in implementing the agreement and addressing the region's complex dynamics. The success of this arrangement hinges on sustained diplomatic efforts and the capability of all parties to effectively navigate the intricate political landscape of the Horn of Africa. Given Turkey's history and role in global politics, it is known to prioritize its own interests. Therefore, there is a possibility that Turkey might employ mercenaries from Syria to destabilize the region for its own strategic advantage.
