Somalia and Ethiopia have resolved a year-long dispute through Türkiye-mediated peace talks, focusing on regional stability. The concern arose due to Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland regarding the Berbera port, amidst tensions from Ethiopia’s landlocked status. Leaders from both countries expressed gratitude towards Türkiye and emphasized their historical ties and commitment to mutual support.
On Wednesday, Somalia and Ethiopia celebrated the conclusion of a nearly year-long dispute, marking a pivotal advancement for regional stability. In a press conference in Ankara attended by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, the leaders announced an agreement reached through Türkiye-mediated peace negotiations, effectively ending the enduring conflict between the two nations.
The tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia escalated following Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland to utilize the Berbera port on the Red Sea, a development that intensified the struggle for access to maritime routes that Ethiopia has faced since losing its coastline to Eritrea in 1991. Ethiopia’s landlocked status has hampered its maritime commerce, making the resolution of this conflict crucial for its economic and logistical considerations. After extensive discussions facilitated by Türkiye, both countries have pledged to prioritize peace and stability moving forward.
During the press conference, President Mohamud extended his gratitude to Türkiye for its mediation efforts, reaffirming Somalia’s commitment to supporting Ethiopia. He stressed the cultural, historical, and political bonds that unite the two nations. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed also expressed appreciation for the peace negotiations, commemorating the sacrifices made by Ethiopian soldiers in their efforts to ensure Somalia’s security and combat terrorism. This sentiment highlights the notion that Ethiopia and Somalia are akin to brothers with intertwined destinies.
The dispute between Somalia and Ethiopia stems from competing interests regarding access to the Red Sea, particularly following Ethiopia’s 2024 agreement to use the Berbera port with the breakaway region of Somaliland. This development reignited historical grievances, exacerbating existing tensions due to Ethiopia’s landlocked status since Eritrea’s independence. Such disputes underscore the fragile nature of regional dynamics in the Horn of Africa and the importance of diplomatic engagement to foster collaborative solutions. Türkiye’s intervention in facilitating peace talks is a testament to its diplomatic efforts in enhancing stability within the region.
The resolution of the year-long dispute between Somalia and Ethiopia is a significant achievement that underscores the importance of diplomatic efforts in safeguarding regional stability. The leaders’ commitment to collaboration and mutual support reflects their interconnected destinies and shared interests, emphasizing a renewed focus on peace and cooperation in the Horn of Africa. This successful agreement serves as a promising foundation for future interactions between the two nations and within the region as a whole.
Original Source: al24news.com
