The Mediterrean Sea and the Horn of Africa are today at the centre not only of regional crises but also of global power struggles. This route, one of the lifelines of world trade, is a strategic threshold in terms of energy transit routes, maritime security and geopolitical competition. Turkey, however, is neither an outside observer nor pursuing a one-sided projection of power at this threshold. Ankara's approach reflects a multidimensional foreign policy based on balance, continuity and mutual dependence.
Three-Pronged Strategy: Security, Development and Diplomacy
Turkey's presence in the Red Sea and the Horn of Africa is shaped around three main axes: security cooperation, economic integration and humanitarian diplomacy.
The TURKSOM Military Training Base in Somalia, the military presence in Qatar, and the strategic line extending to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait provide Turkey with significant room for manoeuvre in terms of maritime security and regional stability. This presence is less about a direct show of military force and more about combating piracy, securing trade routes, and building local capacity.
In the economic sphere, Turkey is increasing its investments in regional countries, particularly Somalia, Ethiopia, and Sudan. Infrastructure projects, growth in trade volume, and development activities carried out through TIKA are making Turkey's presence in the region permanent. The hospitals, schools, and transport projects being built are concrete manifestations of Ankara's approach, which it defines as ‘humanitarian diplomacy.’
On the diplomatic front, Turkey is attempting to take on the role of mediator in regional crises. These efforts, ranging from disputes within Somalia's federal structure to the transition process in Sudan and internal conflicts in Ethiopia, may not always yield the desired results, but they maintain Turkey's position as a ‘player with a voice’.
Country by Country Turkey's Regional Balance Policy
Egypt, with its key location between the Eastern Mediterranean and the Red Sea, is an indispensable actor for Turkey. The normalisation process that began after the severe tensions of 2013 represents a critical threshold not only for bilateral relations but also for regional stability.
Sudan is one of the countries from which Turkey has not completely withdrawn, despite its deep political and economic crisis. Ankara is pursuing a line that prioritises Sudan's territorial integrity and stability while protecting its long-term interests, particularly the Sevakin Island project.
Somalia is the most visible showcase of Turkey's Africa policy. A broad network of cooperation spanning security, health, infrastructure and education has made Turkey not just a donor in Mogadishu, but a partner with tangible results on the ground.
Ethiopia, with its population, economic potential and role in the Nile basin, is a country where Ankara carefully maintains a balance. While developing its commercial relations, Turkey pursues a cautious policy of avoiding taking sides in internal conflicts.
Despite its small size, Djibouti is a strategic crossroads on a global scale. Due to its commanding position over the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, the country is the scene of a race among major powers for military bases, where Turkey prefers to assert its presence through economic and diplomatic means.
Yemen is one of the areas where regional competition has had the most destructive consequences. In this case, Turkey stands out with its emphasis on humanitarian aid and political solutions rather than military engagement.
Saudi Arabia and Kenya are two important partners with whom Turkey pursues both competition and cooperation. The recent thaw in relations with Riyadh has created a new area of coordination for Red Sea security, while Kenya continues to serve as Turkey's stable gateway to East Africa.
Seeking Balance Amidst Competition
Turkey's presence in the Red Sea and the Horn of Africa differs from classic colonialist or purely resource-focused approaches. However, this does not mean there is no competition in the field. Regional actors such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Egypt, as well as the US, China and the European Union, also have a strong presence in this geography.
Ankara's success depends on its capacity to manage this competition. An approach focused on multifaceted diplomacy rather than hard power, and on long-term relationships rather than short-term gains, provides Turkey with flexibility.
Conclusion: The Power of Quiet Continuity
Stability in the Red Sea and Horn of Africa is not a goal that can be achieved by the will of a single actor. However, Turkey continues to assert itself as a permanent actor in this complex region through its balanced, patient and hands-on policies.
Ankara's success depends on maintaining a consistent foreign policy line, creating areas of cooperation rather than competition with regional actors, and accurately reading local dynamics. To the extent that Turkey can maintain this line, it will continue to be not just a bridge in stormy waters, but a reassuring element of balance.
