Ankara, Turkey – On Tuesday, Turkey hosted the first round of technical talks between Somalia and Ethiopia under the Ankara Declaration, aimed at resolving disputes and strengthening regional cooperation in the Horn of Africa. The talks were described as successful, according to Anadolu News Agency.

The meeting, held in Ankara, was led by Somalia’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ali Mohamed Omar, and Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gedion Timothewos. The discussions were facilitated by Turkey’s Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan, who held separate meetings with both delegations to address key points in the negotiation process.

According to Anadolu News Agency, Minister Fidan emphasized the importance of regional cooperation, stating that these talks represent a new opportunity to improve relations between the two countries and the broader region.

“Minister Fidan highlighted that existing challenges can be transformed into opportunities for regional development and stability,” the agency reported.

The talks focused on economic cooperation, particularly Turkey’s role in regional connectivity projects. Delegations also discussed customs regulations, port development, and transportation corridors, emphasizing the impact these sectors have on economic growth and regional stability.

A joint statement issued at the end of the meeting confirmed the commitment of all parties to the objectives outlined in the Ankara Declaration. It was also announced that the second round of technical talks would be held in March 2025, with Turkey continuing to facilitate the process.

These discussions are part of the Ankara Declaration signed in December 2024, which mandates that technical talks commence by February 2025. The negotiation process is expected to conclude within four months.

During the talks, Somalia and Ethiopia also agreed to collaborate on trade and bilateral agreements to ensure Ethiopia gains access to “a secure, reliable, and sustainable sea route,” while respecting the sovereignty of the Federal Republic of Somalia, as outlined in the Ankara Declaration.

Turkey appears poised to continue its facilitation role, hoping that these talks will lead to lasting peace and development in the Horn of Africa.