ANKARA, Turkey – The leaders of Somalia and Ethiopia have reaffirmed their commitment to mutual respect and cooperation. This milestone was marked by the Ankara Declaration, facilitated by the Republic of Türkiye, during a high-level meeting on December 11, 2024, hosted by Turkish President H.E. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
The meeting brought together H.E. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, and H.E. Abiy Ahmed Ali, Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia. Conducted in a cordial and constructive atmosphere, the discussions enabled a frank exchange of views, setting a positive tone for future collaboration.
Both leaders reiterated their dedication to the principles of sovereignty, unity, independence, and territorial integrity, as outlined in international law, the United Nations Charter, and the Constitutive Act of the African Union. Emphasizing a spirit of friendship and mutual respect, they pledged to set aside differences and contentious issues, focusing instead on shared prosperity and cooperation.
Somalia acknowledged the sacrifices of Ethiopian soldiers within the African Union Missions, recognizing their contributions to regional stability. Both parties highlighted the potential benefits of Ethiopia’s assured access to and from the sea, while respecting Somalia’s territorial integrity.
A key outcome of the meeting was the agreement to finalize mutually beneficial commercial arrangements. These arrangements, to be conducted through bilateral agreements, including contracts and leases, will ensure Ethiopia enjoys reliable, secure, and sustainable access to the sea, under Somalia’s sovereign authority. Technical negotiations for these purposes are set to begin by the end of February 2025 and are expected to conclude within four months, with Türkiye’s facilitation.
The leaders welcomed Türkiye’s assistance in implementing these commitments, pledging to resolve any differences through dialogue and peaceful means, with continued support from President Erdoğan. The Turkish President’s ongoing commitment to the process was met with deep appreciation from both Somalia and Ethiopia.
