ANKARA, Turkey — The third round of talks aimed at resolving tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia, scheduled for September 17 in Ankara, has been postponed due to overlapping schedules with the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, sources close to the negotiations have confirmed.
The discussions, mediated by Turkey, were intended to address the ongoing dispute sparked by Ethiopia’s agreement with the breakaway region of Somaliland, which Somalia considers a violation of its sovereignty. This deal involves Ethiopia leasing a section of coastline from Somaliland for a naval base, a move that has heightened tensions in the region.
According to posts on X, the postponement was necessitated by the logistical challenges posed by the UNGA, where many high-level officials from both countries are expected to participate. No new date for the talks has been confirmed, though it’s anticipated they might resume following the conclusion of the UNGA.
Previous rounds of talks in Ankara, also facilitated by Turkey, have not resulted in a breakthrough. Despite the “notable progress” mentioned by Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan after the second round, the core issues remain unresolved. The talks have been marked by escalating rhetoric from both sides, with Somalia setting preconditions for future discussions, including the recognition of its sovereignty by Ethiopia.
The involvement of Turkey as a mediator underscores its growing influence in the region, particularly with Somalia, where Ankara has invested significantly in infrastructure and military support. However, the mediation process has been complicated by external factors, including Egypt’s military deployment in Somalia, which has added another layer of tension.
Ethiopia’s landlocked status and its quest for sea access, coupled with Somalia’s concerns over territorial integrity, form the crux of the dispute. The international community watches closely, as stability in the Horn of Africa has broader implications for regional security and economic cooperation.
As the UNGA convenes, the eyes of diplomats and observers will not only be on the global issues discussed but also on the sidelines where informal meetings might lay the groundwork for when Somalia and Ethiopia can return to the negotiating table in Ankara. The delay might provide both nations time to reassess their positions, but the urgency for a resolution remains, given the potential for conflict if the status quo persists.
