Ethiopian media widely praised the Ankara Declaration, facilitating a pact between Ethiopia and Somalia through Türkiye’s mediation. Celebrated for its potential to enhance regional security and cooperation, this agreement follows nearly a year of tension. Leaders reaffirmed mutual respect for sovereignty, aiming for a cooperative future amidst past conflicts.
On Thursday, Ethiopian media outlets lauded the significance of the Ankara Declaration, a pact established between Ethiopia and Somalia under the mediation of Türkiye. This agreement was celebrated as a critical step toward enhancing cooperation and security in the Horn of Africa, receiving substantial coverage across various media platforms—including both state-owned and private entities. The declaration symbolizes the potential for improved bilateral relations following nearly a year of heightened tensions between the nations.
In Ankara, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan facilitated a summit among the leaders of Somalia and Ethiopia, resulting in an agreement reaffirming mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. The leaders collectively acknowledged the necessity to move beyond previous conflicts and work collaboratively towards shared objectives. Analysts assert that this declaration could pave the way for long-term peace and stability in the region, fostering a climate conducive to development and cooperation.
The historical context is significant, as the estrangement between Ethiopia and Somalia stems from Eritrea’s independence in 1991, which altered Ethiopia’s access to maritime routes. Recent tensions escalated when Ethiopia decided to utilize the port of Berbera in Somalia’s Somaliland region, prompting Turkish mediation efforts. The Ankara Declaration has prompted optimism in both countries, with leaders emphasizing a new beginning rooted in peace.
The Ankara Declaration emerges against a backdrop of longstanding tension between Ethiopia and Somalia, particularly following the geopolitical changes initiated by Eritrea’s independence in 1991. The discontent intensified due to Ethiopia’s dealings with Somaliland, a breakaway region of Somalia, which provoked concerns in Somalia regarding territorial integrity. Türkiye’s involvement as a mediator highlights its increasing role in East African politics, seeking to establish stability in a historically tumultuous region. The agreement aims to address these complex issues by fostering cooperative diplomacy and enhancing security.
In conclusion, the Ankara Declaration between Ethiopia and Somalia represents a significant diplomatic achievement, with the potential to usher in an era of cooperation and peace in the Horn of Africa. The commitment shared by both nations, facilitated by Türkiye, underscores a mutual desire to overcome historical grievances and work collaboratively for future prosperity. This landmark agreement not only addresses immediate tensions but also sets the stage for long-term development and stability in the region.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
