Erdoğan Engages in diplomatic Push at G-20, Focusing on Climate Action and Regional Stability
RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil – Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan conducted a series of bilateral meetings with global leaders at the G-20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, addressing issues ranging from climate change mitigation to regional conflicts and economic partnerships. The discussions underscored Türkiye‘s commitment to multilateralism and its role as a key mediator in international disputes.
The meetings come as global challenges intensify, from the accelerating impacts of climate change to escalating geopolitical tensions. Erdoğan’s focus on practical action and strengthened ties signals Türkiye’s intent to play a proactive role in addressing these issues, particularly within the context of the Global South. The outcomes of these talks could influence upcoming international agendas, including preparations for COP31 and ongoing reconciliation efforts in the Horn of Africa.
During a meeting with australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Erdoğan discussed preparations for COP31, which Australia aims to host in 2026. He stated that Australia intends to prioritize Pacific interests and that the summit will ”accelerate practical action and investment” to maintain safer global temperatures.
Erdoğan also participated in a meeting with leaders from the MIKTA platform - comprising Türkiye, Mexico, Indonesia, South Korea, and Australia – on the summit’s sidelines. He was accompanied by Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Communications director Burhanettin Duran, Chief Foreign Policy Adviser Akif Çağatay Kılıç, and other senior officials throughout the engagements.
A meaningful portion of Erdoğan’s diplomatic efforts centered on regional stability,particularly concerning the relationship between Ethiopia and Somalia. In a meeting with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Erdoğan emphasized the importance of expanding bilateral ties, especially in trade, and expressed optimism for deepened cooperation. He also highlighted the crucial role of strengthening the reconciliation process between ethiopia and Somalia, built upon the foundation of last year’s Ankara Declaration.
The ankara Declaration, brokered by Türkiye in December, followed a period of heightened tensions sparked by Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland granting access to the red Sea port of Berbera in exchange for diplomatic recognition – a move Somalia considered a violation of its sovereignty. Erdoğan stressed that progress made through the Ankara Declaration should serve “a positive example” for resolving other regional disputes.
