Turkey’s Ambassador to Somalia is visiting Somaliland to strengthen bilateral ties, discuss development, and mediate stalled talks. The visit has sparked discussions on Turkey’s role in the region as it coincides with potential U.S. recognition of Somaliland, reflecting shifting geopolitical interests. President Irro emphasized strategic cooperation and the importance of Somaliland’s recognition on international platforms.
Turkey’s Ambassador to Somalia, Alper Aktaş, is on a two-day visit to Somaliland, engaging with local officials to enhance development support, bilateral relations, and potential mediation in stalled discussions between Somalia and Somaliland. His meetings included high-profile attendees such as Somaliland President Abdirahman Abdillahi Irro and Foreign Minister Abdirahman Dahir Adan, focusing on various sectors including trade, education, and healthcare.
During the meetings, President Irro stressed the significance of strategic cooperation between Somaliland and Türkiye, highlighting their deep historical connections. His foreign affairs adviser, Mohamed Hagi, remarked that Aktaş’s visit ushers in a new era for Turkey-Somaliland relations. The Turkish Embassy reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Somaliland’s developmental projects, indicating preparations for ongoing collaboration.
Türkiye has established itself as a mediator in the region, previously hosting discussions between Somalia and Ethiopia to resolve issues stemming from Somaliland’s agreements with Ethiopia. This recent visit by Ambassador Aktaş has triggered debates among pro-Somalia groups, who allege a duplicitous approach from Türkiye regarding its role in Somaliland amidst stalled negotiations with Mogadishu.
Simultaneously, the geopolitical dynamics in the Horn of Africa are evolving as Türkiye deepens its engagement in Somaliland, coinciding with reports that the Trump administration in the U.S. might formally recognize Somaliland. This potential recognition appears driven by U.S. interests in countering Chinese influence in Djibouti, where it has a military base, and viewing Berbera port as a strategic military alternative.
President Irro has been actively advocating for Somaliland’s status at major forums, including the World Governments Summit in Dubai, further emphasizing Somaliland’s strategic importance. The U.S. is also enhancing its engagement in neighboring Puntland, focusing on military cooperation against ISIS-affiliated groups, thus highlighting the shifting interests in the broader region.
Turkey’s renewed focus on Somaliland through Ambassador Alper Aktaş signals a pivotal moment in regional relations, potentially influencing future diplomatic recognition. The dialogue emphasizes strategic cooperation across various sectors and highlights the importance of Somaliland to both Turkish and U.S. geopolitical strategies amidst evolving discussions about its recognition. This engagement raises questions about Türkiye’s double-edged role in the region and underlines Somaliland’s increasing visibility on the international stage.
Original Source: hornobserver.com
