Ethiopia and Somalia have reached a significant agreement to resolve a longstanding conflict regarding port access, mediated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. This agreement aims to foster peace between the nations and enhance Turkey’s influence in the region, with economic benefits for both Ethiopia and Turkey anticipated through improved trade relations.
Ethiopian President Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud have formally reached a significant agreement aimed at resolving a protracted dispute regarding Ethiopia’s access to the Arabian Sea. This pivotal deal was announced in Ankara, following extensive negotiations overseen by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who is increasingly positioning Turkey as a key diplomatic player in the Horn of Africa. The agreement is expected to facilitate further dialogue over port access and trade relations between the two nations.
The conflict stems from Ethiopia’s status as the most populous landlocked country globally, a predicament it has faced since Eritrea’s independence in 1993. This geographical limitation has impeded Ethiopia’s development, prompting the nation to negotiate a lease for port access from Somaliland, a breakaway region in Somalia. The move has resulted in heightened tensions, as Somalia threatened to retaliate against Ethiopian troops stationed within its borders to combat Al-Shabab terrorists, raising fears of a renewed conflict reminiscent of the Ogaden War of 1977-78.
Turkey’s involvement can be attributed to its strong historical ties with both Ethiopia and Somalia, as well as its strategic interest in maintaining stability within the region. Ankara operates its largest overseas military base in Somalia, where Turkish forces have trained numerous Somali soldiers. Moreover, Turkey has supported the Ethiopian government during the recent Tigray conflict through military assistance, including the provision of advanced drones. The resolution of this conflict could significantly enhance Turkey’s influence and commercial opportunities in East Africa.
Eurasia Group expert Emre Peker remarked, “The agreement will help make Turkey into an even more relevant power in the region, with Ankara pitching itself as a security partner for African countries.” Turkish investments in Ethiopia exceed $2 billion, second only to China, indicating a substantial economic interest that could benefit from improved access to Somali ports. Experts believe that facilitating Ethiopian maritime trade could yield important economic advantages for Turkish enterprises, enhancing their involvement in major infrastructure projects in the area.
The complex relationship between Ethiopia and Somalia has historical roots linked to geopolitics and territorial disputes in the Horn of Africa. With Ethiopia being landlocked since the 1990s, a lack of secure port access has been a longstanding challenge, hindering economic growth and development. The recent tensions arising from Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland highlight the fragility of regional security dynamics and the potential for conflict escalation, as seen in past hostilities like the Ogaden War.
The recent agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia signifies a critical step towards peace in a historically volatile region. As Turkey plays an instrumental role in mediating these discussions, it enhances its diplomatic stature and economic interests in East Africa. Future negotiations scheduled for February will further clarify the implementation of the agreement, highlighting the ongoing importance of regional stability and collaboration.
Original Source: www.gzeromedia.com
