Türkiye's prior successes in diplomacy, such as brokering peace in the Ethiopia-Somalia dispute, bolster the optimism surrounding its potential role in Sudan
- Türkiye's involvement is not just a matter of diplomatic leverage but also a significant effort to address the growing humanitarian crisis, highlighting its proactive role in the unfolding regional dynamics
- Türkiye's growing influence in Africa is often perceived through a lens of diplomacy and soft power rather than through military might
Türkiye's global diplomatic influence is rising as it turns its attention to Sudan's devastating civil war, a conflict that has raged for nearly two years. After successfully brokering peace between Ethiopia and Somalia, Türkiye has now focused on bringing resolution to Sudan's fractured political landscape, marked by a power struggle between two rival generals. The devastating conflict has displaced over 11 million people, with tens of thousands of lives lost. In early January, Sudan's military ruler, Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, accepted Türkiye's mediation proposal, seeking to ease tensions with the United Arab Emirates. The war between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces has spiraled into one of the most devastating humanitarian catastrophes of our time. With millions displaced and a nation's economy and infrastructure in ruins, Sudan faces a state of despair. But the tragedy is now reaching beyond Sudan's borders, rippling through the region and threatening fragile political balances. The international community can no longer afford to stand idly by as this crisis intensifies.
- Türkiye's growing presence in Africa
This year must mark a turning point when the world shifts from rhetoric to action. It is a time for serious engagement, not just in words but in deeds, to bring an end to the fighting, halt the suffering, and lay the groundwork for recovery. The stakes are immense, not only for Sudan but for the stability of the entire Horn of Africa. This moment demands more than humanitarian intervention. It is a crucial turning point for global diplomacy, requiring bold action, innovative thinking, and collective resolve to prevent further devastation. Anything less is an abdication of responsibility to the Sudanese people and regional peace. Türkiye's solution seems practical: secure the UAE's cease of RSF backing in return for Sudan lifting complaints against Abu Dhabi at the United Nations. According to a recent United Nations report and several media investigations, the UAE has been found to be financially supporting and arming the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). In response, Washington has imposed sanctions on the RSF leader Hemeti and seven Emirati companies. Meanwhile, Türkiye has presented a proposal to Abu Dhabi, seeking to persuade it to halt its support for the RSF in exchange for Sudan retracting its complaints against the UAE at the UN Security Council.
As a part of its mediating efforts, on Jan. 4, 2025, Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister Burhanettin Duran visited Port Sudan with a positive and pragmatic agenda, which included establishing a bank and setting up a new aid agency in the region. Türkiye's involvement is not just a matter of diplomatic leverage but also a significant effort to address the growing humanitarian crisis, highlighting its proactive role in the unfolding regional dynamics. Türkiye's strategic influence across Africa is rapidly expanding as it seeks to play a larger role in the Horn of Africa and the Sahel amid reduced US engagement. Türkiye's growing engagement in Africa is perhaps the most positive development in recent years for peace and stability in the region. In addition to signing military agreements with key countries such as Nigeria, Rwanda, and Ethiopia, Ankara has also embarked on economic ventures, including oil and gas exploration off Somalia's coast, signaling a deeper economic and geopolitical commitment.
- Soft power over colonial legacy
Türkiye's trade with Africa surged from a modest $5.4 billion in 2003 to $35 billion in 2023. Türkiye's growing influence in Africa is often perceived through a lens of diplomacy and soft power rather than through military might. While security cooperation is a component of its presence on the continent, Türkiye's Africa strategy has mostly been defined by tools of influence like economic partnerships and development projects. Ankara has worked to foster stronger ties by promoting energy and defense cooperation, as seen in its third ministerial review conference with the African Union in Djibouti last year. What sets Türkiye apart from traditional Western powers is its emphasis on avoiding the historical colonial baggage that many African nations still associate with former imperial powers.
Turkish officials reinforce this sentiment by positioning Türkiye as a neutral alternative to the West. Türkiye's well-regarded airlines are a prime example of its deepening connections—operating flights to roughly 60 destinations across the continent, creating both economic and cultural bridges. Türkiye is leveraging its diplomatic and economic influence, focused on infrastructure development and broad, mutually beneficial relationships. This positioning allows Türkiye to walk a delicate balance, making it a valuable partner for a continent eager for growth without the entanglements of past colonialism. As Sudan's civil war persists, Türkiye, with its deep historical ties to the region, has emerged as a surprising but steady force for peace. From the outset of the conflict, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has kept channels of dialogue open between the rival factions. He has advocated a balanced approach based on the principle of equal sovereignty, which stands in contrast to the failed attempts of other international mediators.
Türkiye's prior successes in diplomacy, such as brokering peace in the Ethiopia-Somalia dispute, bolster the optimism surrounding its potential role in Sudan. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has proven to be a key player in managing these intricate negotiations. The country's involvement is not merely strategic but represents an earnest desire to help end the violence and bring much-needed stability to a war-ravaged Sudan. In addition to bolstering ties with the UAE, Türkiye is solidifying its position as a diplomatic bridge-builder, positioning itself as an impartial and reliable player in this multifaceted crisis. If Türkiye's peace efforts succeed, easing the humanitarian disaster and addressing the widespread displacement and hunger, the world will once again witness the power of functional diplomacy, as Erdogan's vision serves as a potential model for resolving conflicts across the globe.
*Opinions expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect Anadolu's editorial policy.
