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Türkiye’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has strongly criticized Israel’s reported recognition of Somaliland as an independent state, saying the move would not benefit Somaliland, Somalia, or the wider Horn of Africa region. Speaking during a joint press conference with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in Addis Ababa, Erdogan warned that such decisions could increase tensions in a region that has already experienced significant instability.
Erdogan emphasized that countries in the Horn of Africa should focus on solving their own challenges without interference from outside powers. He cautioned against turning the region into a battleground for foreign interests, saying this would only deepen divisions and create new conflicts. Türkiye, he said, places high importance on respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations in the region and does not want to see more suffering added to an area that has endured years of political and security challenges.
The Turkish leader also referred to Türkiye’s mediation efforts between Somalia and Ethiopia under what is known as the Ankara Process. He thanked both governments for their constructive and cooperative approach, noting that dialogue remains the best way to address disagreements. According to Erdogan, lasting stability would open the door for the Horn of Africa to unlock its full economic potential. He said the region has strong opportunities for growth and investment, but peace and cooperation are essential to achieving that progress.
Beyond regional politics, Erdogan highlighted the growing relationship between Türkiye and Ethiopia. He described Ethiopia as a brotherly nation and an influential actor on the African continent due to its strategic location and political and economic weight. He pointed out that more than 200 Turkish companies are currently operating in Ethiopia, with total investments reaching approximately $2.6 billion. These businesses, he said, provide jobs for around 20,000 people, contributing to Ethiopia’s economic development.
In addition, Turkish contracting companies have carried out 15 major projects in Ethiopia. These include developments in railway systems, transportation infrastructure, manufacturing facilities, tourism centers, and energy transmission lines. Erdogan expressed hope that cooperation between the two countries would continue to expand in the coming years. He noted that Türkiye is proud to be the second-largest foreign investor in Ethiopia.
The visit also carried symbolic meaning. Erdogan noted that Türkiye opened its first embassy in sub-Saharan Africa in Addis Ababa in 1926. He said the fact that his visit coincided with the 100th anniversary of that diplomatic presence was a special moment, reflecting the long history of relations between the two nations. He also thanked Ethiopian authorities for their warm hospitality during his trip, which marked his first visit to Addis Ababa in 11 years.
Cultural and historical ties were another key part of Erdogan’s message. He highlighted Ethiopia’s importance in Islamic history and culture, particularly the Nejashi Tomb and Mosque, known as the first Muslim settlement in Africa. The site has been restored with support from the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA). Erdogan said preserving such heritage sites strengthens friendship and understanding between the peoples of both countries.
Türkiye will continue supporting educational and cultural initiatives in Ethiopia through organizations such as the Maarif Foundation and TIKA, he added. These efforts aim to build long-term cultural bridges based on equal partnership and mutual respect.
During the visit, both sides signed several agreements to strengthen economic and technical cooperation. Officials signed the minutes of the 9th Türkiye-Ethiopia Joint Economic Commission meeting, as well as a memorandum of understanding on energy cooperation between the two countries’ relevant ministries. After the signing ceremony at the National Palace, Erdogan presented Ethiopia’s prime minister with Türkiye’s domestically produced electric car, Togg, as a gift. He also extended Ramadan greetings to Ethiopia’s Muslim community.