Erdoğan: Israel's Somaliland recognition serves no one, urges regional solutions

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan delivered a strong message on regional sovereignty Tuesday, criticizing Israel's recognition of Somaliland as counterproductive for both Somalia and the broader Horn of Africa. At a joint press conference with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in Addis Ababa, Erdoğan urged regional states to develop indigenous solutions to their challenges, warning against allowing foreign powers to turn the Horn into an "arena of struggle."

Mediation Efforts and Regional Stability

The Turkish president highlighted Ankara's mediation role between Ethiopia and Somalia through the Ankara Process, thanking both sides for their constructive engagement. "Once stability is achieved, we see no obstacle to the Horn of Africa attaining a position that attracts attention with its economic opportunities," Erdoğan stated. He reaffirmed Türkiye's commitment to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of regional states, opposing additional conflicts in a geography already marked by significant turmoil.

Deepening Bilateral Ties

Addressing Turkish-Ethiopian relations, Erdoğan noted with pride that over 200 Turkish companies employing approximately 20,000 Ethiopians have invested $2.6 billion in the country, making Türkiye the second-largest investor. Turkish contracting firms have completed 15 projects spanning railways, transportation, factories, tourism facilities, and energy transmission lines. The visit coincides with the 100th anniversary of Türkiye's first sub-Saharan embassy, opened in Addis Ababa in 1926. Following meetings, both sides signed agreements on economic cooperation and energy, and Erdoğan gifted Türkiye's domestically produced Togg electric vehicle to Prime Minister Abiy.

Cultural and Historical Connections

Erdoğan emphasized centuries-old ties with Ethiopia, noting the country's significance in Islamic culture. Türkiye's TIKA agency has restored the Nejashi Tomb and Mosque, Africa's first Muslim settlement, preserving cultural heritage while strengthening bilateral friendship. The Maarif Foundation continues educational activities, building cultural bridges between the nations. Erdoğan concluded by congratulating Ethiopia's Muslim community on Ramadan, reaffirming Türkiye's commitment to standing with the people of the region on "the basis of equal partnership and mutual understanding."