The African Union has urged Ethiopia and Somalia to quickly implement a newly reached agreement to alleviate tensions regarding Ethiopia’s access to the sea. The agreement follows previous conflicts over an Ethiopia-Somaliland deal. Leaders emphasized the importance of cooperation for regional stability, with technical talks scheduled for early next year to finalize arrangements.
The African Union has called for Ethiopia and Somalia to promptly enforce an agreement designed to alleviate tensions over Ethiopia’s maritime access. Tensions escalated after Ethiopia secured a lease for port facilities from Somaliland, a region that declared independence from Somalia in 1991—a move not recognized by the Somali government. Following a recent Turkish-mediated meeting, an agreement was reached, emphasizing mutual cooperation and the need for technical discussions to ensure Ethiopia’s reliable access to the sea under Somali sovereignty.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan highlighted the agreement’s potential to facilitate Ethiopia’s aspirations for coastal access. Both leaders acknowledged the necessity for collaboration in a region where stability and peace are paramount. Moussa Faki Mahamat, the African Union Commission Chair, urged for immediate implementation of the agreement’s provisions, reflecting a collective commitment to resolving bilateral issues constructively.
The accord aims to stabilize relations between the two countries, with East Africa’s IGAD praising it as a significant step towards diplomatic resolution. The text of the agreement stresses cooperation on commercial dealings while ensuring that Ethiopia’s port access lies under Somali authority. Technical discussions are slated to occur early next year, with hopes for a swift resolution of any disputes, supported by Turkey if necessary.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres have expressed optimism regarding the agreement, reinforcing the importance of each nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. However, the future impact on the controversial memorandum between Somaliland and Ethiopia remains unclear, as Ethiopian officials have not commented on its status since the agreement. Notably, Ethiopia has stated a desire to avoid conflict over coastal access, even as Somalia strengthens ties with Ethiopia’s historical adversary, Egypt, amid increasing volatility in the region.
The regional dynamics between Ethiopia and Somalia have historically been complex, particularly following Ethiopia’s landlocked status and the aspirations to secure maritime access through Somaliland. Somaliland’s unilateral declaration of independence has not been recognized by Somalia, leading to heightened tensions and potential conflicts over territorial rights and access to sea routes. Recent negotiations brokered by Turkey aimed to alleviate these tensions and establish a cooperative framework for both nations concerning maritime access and bilateral relations, promoting peace and stability in the East African region.
The agreement reached between Ethiopia and Somalia symbolizes a significant effort to mend relations and address longstanding disputes. Urging immediate implementation, the African Union and regional bodies highlight the importance of diplomatic dialogue and cooperation for sustainable peace. The forthcoming technical discussions will play a critical role in determining the viability and future implications of the accord for both nations, particularly concerning the controversial agreement with Somaliland.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
