Mogadishu(Mogadishu24)-Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud held a phone call conversation with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, where they discussed the strong bilateral relations between Somalia and Turkey, as well as the importance of regional security and stability.

During the conversation, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing their partnership, focusing on areas of mutual interest such as defense cooperation and economic development. President Mohamud emphasized Turkey’s crucial role in promoting dialogue and peaceful resolutions to regional challenges, strengthening the bonds between the two nations.

The discussion also addressed the ongoing tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia. President Erdoğan stressed Turkey’s continued efforts to mediate the conflict and expressed hope for concrete results in the upcoming second round of negotiations, scheduled to be held in Turkey today on Monday.

President Mohamud reiterated Somalia’s readiness to engage in economic cooperation with Ethiopia but underscored that any partnership must respect Somalia’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity in accordance with international law.

Pessimism Over Mediation Efforts

Despite Turkey’s active mediation, some analysts remain skeptical about the potential for successful reconciliation between Somalia and Ethiopia. Abdirashid Hashi, a researcher, expressed doubts about the talks, citing Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s ambitions regarding Somalia’s maritime territory as a significant barrier to normalization.

The phone call highlighted the ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve regional tensions and the strong ties between Somalia and Turkey as they work together to promote peace and stability in the region.