Antalya (AX) – On a serene Thursday evening, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia gracefully touched down in the picturesque city of Antalya. His purpose? To partake in the much-anticipated 4th Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF). The forum, a hub of intellectual and diplomatic exploration, officially opened its doors on Friday, continuing its discourse through to April 13. This year, the poignant theme is “Reclaiming Diplomacy in a Fragmented World.” Such a theme prompts us to ponder: In a world splintered by various issues, how can diplomacy weave its magic to unite?
Abdirahman Adam Ali, the eloquent presidential spokesperson, confirmed to the eager press that President Mohamud is slated to deliver a keynote address, a speech anticipated with much intrigue and vigor. Besides, he will engage in a series of bilateral discussions with a slew of world leaders—an opportunity to dive deep into the intricate dance of international relations.
In the words of the spokesperson, “The President will highlight Somalia’s diplomatic progress, economic priorities, and its expanding engagement with the international community, especially Turkey.” Can you imagine the kind of nuanced conversations that will unfold in those meeting rooms?
Hosting this illustrious gathering is none other than Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The ADF serves as a melting pot for a diverse ensemble of individuals—heads of state, esteemed diplomats, erudite scholars, and strategic policymakers. Their collective aim: to dissect and address both regional and global challenges, with a particular emphasis on the twin pillars of diplomacy and conflict resolution.
President Mohamud’s agenda at this forum reads like a roadmap to national advancement. He is anticipated to articulate Somalia’s ongoing endeavors towards stabilization and state-building. With clarity and foresight, he will outline the Federal Government’s foreign policy initiatives. Not to mention, strengthening the ever-important bilateral ties between Somalia and Turkey will feature prominently, with special focus on security, trade, and infrastructure. Yet, this is no small feat in a tumultuous region like the Horn of Africa, where regional dynamics pull and stretch the fabric of peace.
This gathering is not just notable—it’s essential. Since its inception in 2021, the Antalya Diplomacy Forum has distinguished itself as a key venue for meaningful dialogue. Each year, it cultivates discussions that ripple through diplomatic corridors worldwide. This year is no exception, with a venerable lineup of attendees. Expecting to see President Mohamud alongside luminaries such as Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Libyan Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibah, among others, adds a layer of gravitas to the proceedings.
Let us not forget the Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi as they join the brainstorming sessions. The diversity of perspectives is a rich soil from which innovative diplomatic solutions may flourish.
At events such as the ADF, it feels fitting to recall the words of the late diplomat Kofi Annan, “More countries have understood that women’s equality is a prerequisite for development.” How such insights reverberate when world leaders gather to chart the path forward—not just for nations, but for the individuals who call those nations home.
As we reflect on the gathering in Antalya, it is worth questioning what stories will emerge. What alliances will be forged, and what ground-breaking solutions will be entertained? It’s an unfolding narrative of collaboration and courage. Can we dare to hope this forum will reclaim diplomacy, offering fresh perspectives in a fragmented world?
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.
