Türkiye hosted the inaugural round of technical talks between Somalia and Ethiopia, aimed at fostering collaboration under the Ankara Process. Led by Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, the discussions reaffirmed commitments to the Ankara Declaration, planning for further negotiations in March 2025, with an emphasis on shared prosperity and territorial respect.
Türkiye has initiated the first round of technical talks between Somalia and Ethiopia as part of the Ankara Process. The discussions were led by Türkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and included delegations from Ethiopia, headed by Foreign Minister Dr. Gedion Timothewos, and Somalia, led by State Minister for Foreign Affairs Ali Mohamed Omar. These negotiations mark a significant step towards collaborative engagement between the two nations.
During the talks, both delegations reaffirmed their adherence to the Ankara Declaration’s principles and took initial steps towards achieving a shared vision focused on sustainable and mutual development. Further appreciation was expressed for Türkiye’s ongoing role in facilitating dialogue and setting the stage for subsequent technical negotiations planned for March 2025.
The discussions were framed by the Ankara Declaration adopted on December 11, 2024, involving leaders such as Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. This declaration emphasizes launching technical negotiations facilitated by Türkiye by the end of February 2025, with the goal of concluding within four months while minimizing contentious issues.
Both Somalia and Ethiopia committed to respecting Somalia’s territorial integrity while acknowledging the advantages Ethiopia might secure from maritime access. This commitment reflects a mutual intention to navigate political differences for the sake of regional prosperity and cooperation.
In summary, the first technical talks facilitated by Türkiye between Somalia and Ethiopia mark a vital step toward regional cooperation and shared development. Both nations committed to the principles outlined in the Ankara Declaration, and a roadmap has been established for future negotiations, highlighting respect for territorial integrity and mutual benefits.
Original Source: www.dailysabah.com
