Ankara, – Somalia and Ethiopia have launched the first round of technical negotiations under the Ankara Process, aimed at fostering cooperation and stability between the two nations. The discussions took place in Ankara and were hosted by Türkiye’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Hakan Fidan.

High-level delegations from both countries participated in the negotiations, including Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Dr. Gedion Timothewos, and Somalia’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, H.E. Ali Mohamed Omar. The talks follow the Ankara Declaration, adopted on 11 December 2024, which was endorsed by Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, with the facilitation of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

The declaration outlines a vision for a stable and prosperous future for both countries, and today’s meeting marked the beginning of concrete steps to turn that vision into reality. Both delegations reaffirmed their commitment to the spirit of the Ankara Declaration and focused on laying the groundwork for sustainable development.

Türkiye was praised for its role in fostering dialogue between the two nations, with both delegations acknowledging Ankara’s continued support in preparing for the next round of negotiations, scheduled for March 2025.

The talks come amid ongoing tensions and diplomatic efforts to resolve disputes between Somalia and Ethiopia, with hopes that the Ankara Process will serve as a platform for constructive engagement and mutual understanding.