The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) commended an agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia aimed at resolving a dispute regarding a port construction in Somaliland. ATMIS and AU leaders emphasized the importance of respecting sovereignty and fostering regional peace, highlighting ongoing tensions from prior agreements involving Somaliland. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to mutual cooperation for security and stability.
The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) has praised an agreement achieved between Ethiopia and Somalia aimed at resolving their ongoing conflict regarding Ethiopia’s proposed port construction in Somaliland. Mohamed El-Amine Souef, ATMIS’s Special Representative, characterized this agreement as a significant move towards fostering regional peace and stability. He emphasized ATMIS’s commitment to supporting Somalia in its efforts towards nation-building and security, urging both nations to uphold the measures agreed upon and enhance mutual cooperation.
Furthermore, the African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson, Moussa Faki Mahamat, expressed approval of the recent accord struck between Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed under the guidance of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. He commended this act of leadership and called for the prompt implementation of the agreement, highlighting the necessity of resolving tensions that had arisen from earlier agreements involving Ethiopia and Somaliland.
The backdrop to this diplomatic engagement lies in rising tensions sparked by Ethiopia’s recognition of Somaliland’s independence in exchange for access to the Red Sea, an arrangement that Somalia opposed. In a united statement, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud reaffirmed their dedication to honoring each other’s sovereignty and expressed a commitment to work collaboratively on issues pertaining to Ethiopia’s maritime access.
The complex relationship between Somalia and Ethiopia has been strained over territorial disputes and recognition issues, particularly concerning Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has not been widely recognized internationally. The recent agreement represents a potential thaw in relations as it seeks to address Ethiopia’s need for maritime access while asserting respect for Somalia’s territorial integrity. This development is viewed as critical for enhancing regional stability and fostering cooperative agreements that promote peace in the Horn of Africa.
In summary, the agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia marks a significant step towards resolving long-standing tensions over Somaliland. The recognition of each nation’s sovereignty and commitment to collaboration reflects a broader effort to enhance security and stability in the region. Positive responses from key African Union leaders indicate widespread support for this diplomatic achievement, which underscores the importance of ongoing dialogue and cooperation to prevent conflict and promote peace in East Africa.
Original Source: www.socialnews.xyz
