The ongoing Ankara Process, initiated by Turkiye, is striving to mediate between Ethiopia and Somalia amid growing tensions over Ethiopia’s controversial agreement with Somaliland. Turkiye launched this mediation effort in response to a brewing diplomatic crisis stemming from Somalia’s objections to Ethiopia’s engagement with the breakaway region, which Somalia considers a violation of its territorial sovereignty.
The Ankara Process began in july 2024 with Turkiye facilitating the first two rounds of talks between Somalia and Ethiopia in Ankara. These talks aimed to ease tensions and create a diplomatic path forward, but have faced significant challenges. Ethiopia’s deepening ties with Somaliland, particularly in terms of security and trade agreements, have been a major point of contention for Somalia.
The third round of talks, initially scheduled for 17 September, was postponed after both sides failed to agree on key terms, including the extent of Ethiopia’s engagement with Somaliland and the mechanisms for resolving the dispute. Somalia has insisted that any agreements with Somaliland undermine its territorial integrity, while Ethiopia has maintained that its actions are aimed at regional stability and economic development.
Turkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan reaffirmed his country’s commitment to continuing the Ankara Process during a meeting with Somalia’s Ahmed Moallim Fiqi and Ethiopia’s Taye Atske Selassie on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York. “The Ankara Process continues, and we are determined to work toward a balanced, viable, and mutually beneficial solution,” stated Turkiye’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Despite setbacks, both Somalia and Ethiopia remain engaged in the process, though their attitudes differ. Somalia remains defensive and firm about its stance on sovereignty, while Ethiopia appears more flexible, prioritizing regional cooperation and trade with Somaliland. The postponement of the third round reflects the complexity of the dispute, but Turkiye’s continued mediation offers hope for a diplomatic resolution.