MOGADISHU, Somalia – Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is set to arrive in Somalia in the coming days, marking a significant milestone in Türkiye’s diplomatic efforts in Africa. According to multiple sources, an advance delegation has already landed in Mogadishu to prepare for this historic visit.

The trip follows the recent signing of a landmark agreement brokered by Türkiye, which successfully resolved a prolonged maritime dispute between Somalia and Ethiopia. The accord, achieved after nearly a year of tensions over access to the Red Sea, was hailed by Erdogan as a diplomatic breakthrough. Speaking at an event in Erzurum over the weekend, the Turkish president described the negotiations as “a meeting that lasted seven hours” and emphasized the cooperative spirit that enabled the resolution.

“Thanks to their commitment and cooperation, we signed the agreement and brought this chapter to a successful conclusion,” Erdogan shared with the audience. “We then held a press conference to announce it to the world. I also made it clear that, God willing, I would visit Ethiopia and Somalia within the first two months of next year to celebrate and formalize this important step.”

The agreement, formally known as the Ankara Declaration, underscores a renewed commitment to mutual respect for sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity. In a joint statement released after discussions in Ankara, the leaders of Somalia and Ethiopia praised the role of Türkiye in facilitating the accord.

Erdogan, reflecting on Türkiye’s unique position as a trusted mediator, explained, “Our strong ties with both nations enabled us to bridge divides where others struggled. Through collaboration and understanding, we achieved progress that many thought was impossible.”

President Erdogan’s upcoming visit to Somalia signals Türkiye’s growing influence and its continued dedication to fostering peace and cooperation in the Horn of Africa.