Turkey has expressed its sturdy 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 individuals.
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, mentioned that Turkey was deeply involved by this unilateral transfer, which he mentioned was opposite to the worldwide regulation and the ideas of fine 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 regulation,” Mr. Keçeli mentioned.
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 assist for any constructive efforts on this course.
