Turkey said Horn of Africa rivals Somalia and Ethiopia made “notable progress” on the second round of talks in Ankara on Tuesday aiming to overcome their differences.
Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan mediated talks between his counterparts from two rival neighbors in Africa as Turkey is pushing for diplomatic and economic influence on the continent.
Turkey has been carrying out shuttle diplomacy between Ethiopian and Somalian foreign ministers since Monday when both parties refused to meet.
“I am pleased to announce that the number and extent of issues we discussed, has increased significantly, compared to the first round,” Fidan said in English, speaking to the press alongside his two counterparts.
Turkey mediated the first round of talks in July.
“There are important convergences on some major principles and specific modalities. This constitutes notable progress,” Fidan added.
The two neighbors have a history of stormy relations and territorial feuds. They fought two wars in the late 20th century.
These tensions were exacerbated earlier this year when Addis Ababa signed a memorandum of understanding with Somaliland that gives Ethiopia — one of the largest landlocked countries in the world — long-sought-after sea access.
In return, Somaliland — which unilaterally declared independence from Somalia in 1991, a move not recognized by Mogadishu — has said Ethiopia would give it formal recognition, although these assertions have not been confirmed by Addis Ababa.
Under the January 1 pact, Somaliland agreed to lease 20 kilometers (12 miles) of its coast for 50 years to Ethiopia, which wants to set up a naval base and a commercial port.
Ethiopian Foreign Minister Taye Atske Selassie told the press Addis Ababa sought to “secure dependable access” to the sea.
“In these discussions and we will remain ready to work closely to find solutions for regional tensions,” he said.
“We look forward to have continued engagement that will ultimately help us resolve current differences.”
Somalia’s Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi said “progress was made” in Tuesday’s talks.
“Somalia remains committed to protecting its sovereignty, territorial integrity and unity,” he said.
“As we prepare for the third round of talks we are hopeful that the momentum that we have built will lead to a final solution.”
The next round of talks is scheduled for September 17 in Ankara, Fidan said.
