Turkey backs 'one Somalia' policy

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The government of Turkey could have sent a signal over its firm stand on 'one Somalia' policy, following the latest meeting in Mogadishu in which a senior envoy held a meeting with Sultan Abubakar Wabar, a traditional elder from Somaliland.

The meeting focused on stability in the Awdal region with the breakaway region of Somaliland, and was attended by Turkey’s ambassador to Somalia. But despite Turkey’s strong stance on Somalia's unity, the Somaliland region expressed concerns over this move.

Abdirahman Dahir Aden, Somaliland’s foreign minister, termed the move as 'unacceptable interference' while insisting that the decision by Turkey risks the region's sovereignty and independence.

“The government of the Republic of Somaliland considers this action to be a clear and unacceptable interference,” the statement read. “The government has officially demanded that the Turkish ambassador provide an immediate and satisfactory explanation.”

Somalia’s defence minister, Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, was photographed with Sultan Wabar in Mogadishu after the meeting, which was brokered by Turkey. Fiqi went on to post a message on X describing the importance of the meeting.

“The time for Awdal has come.” Many interpreted the remark as signaling potential federal government support for development projects in Awdal, a region in western Somaliland where some elites have called for closer ties with Mogadishu.

Turkey, a close ally of Somalia, has long backed the federal government, though it has also hosted talks between Mogadishu and Hargeisa to mediate. Turkey has maintained the need for a single Somalia policy, further showcasing its commitment towards the unity of the country.

Somalia has opposed the moves to recognize Somaliland, arguing that such steps would infringe its territorial integrity and sovereignty. To date, no country has recognized Somaliland, and the recent overtures by Ethiopia were rejected.

It took the efforts of Turkey to reconcile Somalia with Ethiopia following the decision by Addis Ababa to strike a deal with Ethiopia over access to the Red Sea in exchange for recognition. Somaliland remains part of Somalia.

GAROWE ONLINE