Somalia holds a deep-rooted perspective of altruism as a fundamental principle of brotherhood with the Islamic Arab world. The selflessness of Somalis towards Arabs operates in a way that the Somali people are naturally inclined to extend blessings and well-being to their Arab brothers. This principle unilaterally promotes Somalis’ empathy, compassion, and cooperation as undeniable qualities of their behavior toward their Arabic brothers. It’s important to note that Somali natural sympathy towards Arabs is principally derived from reciprocal traditions of philosophical, cultural, and religious beliefs.
On the other hand, despite the prosperous oil resources of Arabs, particularly the Gulf states, their attitudes have strongly inclined towards more self-interested animosity and a competitive aspect of greed. However, even though, in recent decades, wealthy Arabian countries, particularly the Gulf states, have approached the Somali nation with unbrotherly discontents driven by diplomatic and geopolitical considerations, leading to suspicious strains that complicate the once sincere relationships between Somalia and Gulf states.
Somalia has currently turned its attention to Turkey, and that move bothers certain countries in the Gulf states. It’s essential to note that severe sentiments of Arab monarchies towards the Turks can be problematic for Somalia’s moderate approach because the Arab world mainly has concerns and disagreements with Turkey. Several factors might contribute to varying opinions or occasional tensions, including geopolitical differences, historical context, regional conflicts, ideological and political differences, and economic competition.
However, there have been instances where diplomatic and geopolitical considerations have led to complex relationships between Somalia and certain Gulf countries. Some factors that might contribute to tensions or challenges include:
- Neutral Positions in Regional Conflicts: Gulf countries often navigate complex regional dynamics, and Somalia’s neutral positions in conflicts like the Gulf crisis can negatively shape their relations with Somalia. Each Gulf state believes that either you’re with them or against them, with no space for neutrality in between.
- Historical Factors: Historical events and diplomatic relationships play a role in shaping the current attitudes of both sides. The historical ties between Somalia and some Gulf countries, as well as the historical influence of regional powers, may have implications for contemporary relations. This is further aggravated by Islamic radicals empowered and financed by charity organizations aligned with their governments, causing havoc in Somalia.
- Economic and Strategic Interests: Competition for influence and resources, as well as differences in economic and strategic interests, can impact relations. Gulf countries may have varying priorities in neighboring countries that have bad relations with Somalia, making Somalia suspicious about the actions behind the scenes of some Gulf states that secretly represent the interests of third parties.
- Alleged Involvement in Internal Affairs: Unexposed concerns about interference in the internal affairs of Somalia, particularly in its political processes, including elections and regional disputes, can strain relations between Somalia and Gulf states.
- Security Concerns: Somalia, like many nations, has security concerns that influence its foreign policy decisions. Issues related to terrorism, piracy, or instability in the region can affect bilateral relations if anyone is indirectly involved in supporting it.
It’s crucial to recognize that Gulf state perspectives are subject to dynamic changes, and while certain political or diplomatic issues may lead to tensions between Turkey and specific Arab countries, Somalia maintains positive or neutral relations with both countries. Understanding the nuances of geopolitical, historical, and ideological dynamics is essential for a comprehensive view of any complex international relationships.
It is important to note that diplomatic relations are dynamic and can change over time. Somalia engages with its foreign friendly partners in cooperative diplomacy based on mutual national interests, and tensions or challenges raised in rival partners in relations with Somalia can often be reduced through dialogue and diplomatic efforts among them, and Somalia should not become a victim of their unhealthy relations.
It is worth staying informed about the possible development trends to gain a more accurate understanding of the current state of relations between Somalia and Turkey. Turkey has shown interest in Somalia across various domains, including diplomatic, economic, and humanitarian aspects. Here are some key areas that highlight Turkey’s interests in Somalia: Humanitarian Aid and Development Assistance, Economic Partnerships, Diplomatic Relations, Educational and Cultural Ties, Military Cooperation, Counterterrorism Efforts, and Strategic Position in the Red Sea. It’s essential to note that Turkey’s engagement in Somalia is multifaceted and involves a combination of diplomatic, economic, and humanitarian efforts. The interests are often framed within the context of fostering stability, development, and collaboration in Somalia for better security in the region and much safer waters.
It’s also noteworthy that after President Erdogan, Turkey may not be the same in its relations with Somalia. The bilateral relations can be as equal as the situation now with Gulf states. Therefore, we must bear in mind that no country is better for Somalia than the others as long as their interests shift to different perspectives of correlation with new fronts of lucrative businesses for national and personal interests. Therefore, one should not mistake the current goodwill for a trend forever in political relations. There is no attachment to the interest of one country forever. The deal is the reciprocal interests between the two countries in a given period of time.”
Dr. Said Mohamud
Chair of the Somali People’s Party
Saciidciise258@aol.com
