Somaliland Doubts Mediation Role of Turkey in Ethiopian Dispute

After the second round of talks in Turkey, Somaliland expressed concerns about diplomatic tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia. The tensions started with Ethiopia’s Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Somaliland regarding sea access. Somaliland criticized Turkey for its involvement, claiming it indicates a lack of neutrality and direct interference with the MoU.

Somalia and Ethiopia held a second round of talks in Turkey on Tuesday over an issue of the MoU signed by Ethiopia with Somaliland in January 2024. The talks aimed to reduce tensions between the two countries. Turkey acted as a mediator, or middleman, during the discussions. The talks ended without a final result.

Despite these concerns, Somaliland reaffirmed its commitment to the MoU with Ethiopia. The Somaliland government stated that officials are monitoring Turkey’s mediation efforts closely. Somaliland’s President, Muse Bihi Abdi, accused Turkey of disrespecting Somaliland’s sovereignty. He claimed that Somaliland would not tolerate actions implying governance by Somalia.

Ethiopia, however, responded positively to Turkey’s mediation, praising the Turkish Foreign Minister’s role. The Ethiopian government expressed confidence in Turkey’s understanding of its commitment to peaceful sea access and the de-escalation of regional tensions.

Ethiopia and Somalia will hold a third round of talks in Turkey in September. They hope to achieve a final result at that time.

Somaliland’s distrust of Turkey grew after reports emerged that Turkey was planning to deploy naval support to Somali waters. This follows an agreement allowing Turkey to send an exploration vessel to search for oil and gas off the Somali coast. Somaliland warned that unilateral actions by foreign entities, like the proposed Turkish naval operations, would violate international law and threaten regional stability.

In response, Somaliland formed a Ministerial Level State Recognition Taskforce to enhance its recognition efforts. This initiative aligns with ongoing diplomatic strategies, including the recent MoU with Ethiopia regarding sea access.

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