Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said Israel’s recognition of the breakaway Republic of Somaliland would not benefit Somaliland or the wider region. He said Turkey values the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states in the area.
Erdogan’s comments in Ethiopia
Erdogan told a press conference during a visit to Addis Ababa that Turkey did not want to see new conflicts in the region. He said regional countries should find solutions to their own problems and that the Horn of Africa should not become a competition field for foreign forces.
He reiterated remarks he made in December, when he said Israel’s decision to formally recognise Somaliland was illegal and unacceptable and accused Israel of trying to destabilise the Horn of Africa.
Turkey’s role in the Horn of Africa
NATO member Turkey has increased its influence in Africa in recent years, including by training Somalia’s security forces and supplying development assistance in return for a foothold on a key global shipping route. Ankara has also developed close ties with other regional countries, including Ethiopia.
Regional diplomatic and security developments
Somalia has cut all ties with the United Arab Emirates, accusing it of influencing Israel’s recognition of Somaliland. Mogadishu has since signed a defence agreement with Qatar, while Turkey sent fighter jets to its base there in a show of force.
Turkey’s stance on Gaza and Israel
Turkey has been one of the most vocal critics of Israel and its assault on Gaza, calling it a genocide. It has cut all trade with Israel and called for international measures against its leaders.
How do you think regional countries can address disputes in the Horn of Africa without outside involvement?
