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ANKARA, TURKEY – February 18, 2025 – Ethiopia and Somalia have initiated their first round of technical talks in Ankara, Turkey, aimed at resolving a dispute sparked by Ethiopia’s agreement with Somalia’s breakaway region of Somaliland. The talks, mediated by Turkey, seek to address concerns about potential conflict in the already volatile region.
The dispute arose when Ethiopia signed a memorandum of understanding with Somaliland to lease land along its coastline to establish a marine force base. In return, Ethiopia would become the first country to formally recognize Somaliland’s independence. Somalia has condemned the deal, claiming it infringes on its sovereignty and territory.
The Ankara Declaration
In December 2024, the leaders of Somalia and Ethiopia met in Turkey and agreed to initiate technical talks aimed at reaching a potential agreement that upholds Somalia’s territorial integrity while allowing Ethiopia access to the sea. The Turkish Foreign Ministry stated that delegations led by Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos and Somalia’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ali Mohamed Omar, held the first round of technical negotiations in Ankara.
Commitment to Resolution
Both delegations have demonstrated their commitment to the Ankara Declaration, which aims to transform the vision of a more prosperous and stable future into reality. The next round of talks is scheduled for March 2025.