Turkey has expressed its robust disapproval of the settlement signed by Ethiopia and Somaliland on January 1, 2024, which it considers as an infringement on the rights and pursuits of the Somali folks.
The settlement, titled Memorandum of Understanding for Partnership and Cooperation, was introduced by the Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and the Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi in Addis Ababa, with out consulting or informing the Federal Authorities of Somalia.
In an announcement issued on January 4, 2024, the Spokesperson of the Turkish Ministry of Overseas Affairs, Mr. Öncü Keçeli, stated that Turkey was deeply involved by this unilateral transfer, which he stated was opposite to the worldwide legislation and the rules of excellent neighborliness.
“Turkey reaffirms its unwavering dedication to the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia. We emphasize that this place can also be a requirement of the worldwide legislation,” Mr. Keçeli stated.
He added that Turkey hoped for a peaceable and lasting decision of the disputes between Somalia and Somaliland via direct dialogue and negotiations among the many Somali events, and reiterated Turkey’s help for any constructive efforts on this route.
