Erdogan: Israel’s Recognition of Somaliland Benefits No One

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan visited Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa, where he held a joint press conference with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali. Discussions focused on regional developments as well as bilateral economic and political relations.

Reaction to Israel’s Somaliland Recognition

At the press conference, Erdoğan addressed Israel’s decision to recognize Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state, emphasizing that the move does not contribute to regional stability.

Turkish President Erdoğan said, “Israel’s recognition of Somaliland would benefit neither Somaliland nor the Horn of Africa,” highlighting potential negative effects on Somalia and the regional balance.

Erdoğan reiterated Türkiye’s position that countries in the region should develop solutions to their own challenges and warned against turning the Horn of Africa into a ground for foreign power struggles.

Official Ceremony in Addis Ababa

During his visit the first in 11 years President Erdoğan was welcomed with a formal ceremony in Addis Ababa.

At the National Palace, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali personally greeted Erdoğan as he exited his vehicle. Delegation-level talks were held, followed by the joint press conference where the leaders delivered public statements.

Economic Cooperation and Investments

Erdoğan highlighted the strong economic ties between Türkiye and Ethiopia. He noted that over 200 Turkish companies are active in Ethiopia, with investments totaling $2.5 billion and providing employment for around 20,000 people.

He described these achievements as tangible evidence of strategic partnership and expressed determination to further deepen economic collaboration between the two countries.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan presented Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed with Türkiye's domestically produced electric car, the Togg.