Ethiopia and Somalia have reached a Turkey-brokered agreement to resolve their differences regarding a military base deal in Somaliland. Turkish President Erdogan announced the deal, emphasizing peace between the nations. Somalia previously protested the deal, asserting it violated its territorial integrity. Future negotiations are set for early 2025 to further settle the issues between the two countries.
Ethiopia and Somalia have reached an agreement to collaboratively address their ongoing disputes regarding a controversial arrangement that permits Ethiopia to construct a military base along the coast of Somaliland in exchange for an interest in the national airline. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced this diplomatic development following discussions with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, emphasizing the pledge towards peace and cooperation between the two nations.
This agreement follows a prior accord made on January 1, where Somaliland granted Ethiopia rights to establish military and commercial operations on its coast. In return, Somaliland would receive an unspecified share in Ethiopian Airlines, while Ethiopia would contemplate recognizing Somaliland’s independence, which has yet to gain international acknowledgment since its declaration in 1991. Somalia has objected, claiming this arrangement undermines its territorial sovereignty.
Turkey’s involvement in mediating the conflict has been ongoing since August, strategically aligning with its broader ambitions to increase its influence within Africa and enhance energy security through exploration ventures in Somali waters. The recent “Ankara Declaration” aims to reduce tensions following the election of Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi as the Somaliland leader, raising uncertainties regarding the adherence to the military base agreement.
Ethiopia and Somalia have decided to suspend their disputes and contentious issues, paving the way for technical negotiations, which are expected to begin by February 2025 with Turkey’s facilitation. While the renewed accord does not introduce new provisions, experts have noted the significance of the leaders convening as a step forward.
The relationship between Ethiopia and Somalia has been historically complex, characterized by conflict and alliance at varying times. The latest tensions arose from Somalia’s objections to Ethiopia’s engagement with Somaliland, an autonomous region that declared independence but lacks international recognition. The strategic motivations behind Ethiopia’s military base proposal include enhancing regional security and stabilizing its influence amidst ongoing insurgencies in Somalia. Concurrently, Turkey’s mediation reflects its aspiration to establish a foothold in the Horn of Africa, crucial for energy resources and geopolitical influence.
In conclusion, the agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia represents a critical step towards mitigating a prolonged feud over territorial concerns and military agreements. The involvement of Turkey as a mediator highlights the international dimension of regional conflicts in the Horn of Africa. As the nations prepare for detailed negotiations, the overarching hope remains focused on achieving lasting peace and stability in the region.
Original Source: financialpost.com
