The fourth annual Antalya Diplomacy Forum, organised by the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs from 11 to 13 April 2025 featured a strong push for Kosovo and it’s recognition in the Horn of Africa.
The event brought together over 6,000 participants from 155 countries, including 19 heads of state and 73 ministers.
The theme of the forum, “Returning Diplomacy to a Fragmented World,” reflects the desire to strengthen international cooperation amid global challenges.
Kosovo: Diplomatic Breakthrough
One of the key events of the forum was the official recognition of Kosovo’s independence by Sudan.
Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani announced an agreement to establish diplomatic relations with Sudan after meeting with Sudanese Foreign Minister Ali Yousif on the sidelines of the forum.
Such recognition was a significant step for Kosovo, which seeks to expand international recognition.
President Osmani also expressed gratitude to Türkiye for its support in the process of recognition of Kosovo by other states, emphasising President Erdogan’s personal contribution to this process.
Horn of Africa: Challenges and Integration
The forum paid special attention to the Sahel and Horn of Africa region.
In the panel ‘Sahel: The Future of Regional Integration,’ the Foreign Ministers of Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso discussed security, economic development and the need to strengthen regional cooperation.
Regional integration in the Horn of Africa was also discussed, including the participation of countries in organisations such as the East African Community and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development.
These initiatives aim to overcome conflicts and stimulate economic growth in the region.
African Women’s Role in Security
The African Union actively participated in the forum, emphasizing the importance of peacekeeping efforts and the role of women in ensuring security on the continent.
The African Union Special Envoy for Women, Peace, and Security, Bineta Diop, noted the need to strengthen women’s participation in peacekeeping processes and conflict resolution.
Economic Cooperation and Prospects
The forum discussed Africa’s economic and demographic prospects.
African foreign ministers stressed the importance of investing in education and infrastructure, as well as the need for fair investment practices and cooperation with countries such as Türkiye.
Ukraine and Africa: New Horizons for Cooperation
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybikha held a series of meetings with African colleagues, calling for deepening cooperation, support for peace initiatives and joint efforts to ensure food security and stability in the region.
Türkiye as a Diplomatic Bridge
Türkiye has positioned itself as a key diplomatic broker, using the Antalya Diplomatic Forum to enhance its soft power and global relevance.
Through this platform, Ankara facilitates high-level dialogue between conflicting regions, especially in Africa, the Balkans, and the Middle East.
President Erdogan’s government emphasises Türkiye’s role as a bridge between continents, cultures, and ideologies.
By hosting leaders and promoting regional cooperation, Türkiye strengthens its strategic influence and diplomatic ties.
Kosovo and Recognition
To date, Kosovo has been recognised by some 117 countries, including the United States and most EU countries.
However, a number of states, such as Serbia, Russia, China, and several countries in Africa and Asia, do not recognise its independence.
Some, including Suriname, Papua New Guinea, and Togo, withdrew recognition under diplomatic pressure.
Sudan’s recognition of Kosovo at the Antalya Forum in 2025 was an important step, both symbolic and political.
It strengthens Kosovo’s position in seeking membership in international organisations, including the Council of Europe and the United Nations, despite continued opposition from Serbia and its allies.
Africa-Europe: A New Partnership
The Antalya Forum strengthened the dialogue between Africa and Europe, highlighting the potential for new formats of cooperation.
In an arena of global crises, from the conflict in Ukraine to instability in the Middle East, the EU’s interest in Africa is growing.
Representatives of the African Union and European countries discussed investments in green energy, infrastructure, and digital technologies.
The forum became a platform for negotiations on expanding the Global Gateway program aimed at sustainable development in Africa.
The participation of the Balkan countries also paved the way for the creation of transcontinental economic alliances.
The Antalya Forum reinforced Türkiye’s diplomatic role and fostered stronger ties between Europe, Africa, and emerging regional partners like Kosovo.
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