Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud visited Ethiopia to enhance diplomatic relations after a peace deal targeting regional tensions. Despite efforts mediated by Turkiye, key issues surrounding Ethiopia’s access to the sea and its agreement with Somaliland remain unresolved. The visit coincides with increased cooperation among Somalia, Egypt, and Eritrea against Ethiopian ambitions, reflecting the intricate political landscape of the Horn of Africa.
On Saturday, the President of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, made a significant visit to Ethiopia, aiming to strengthen diplomatic ties following a recent peace agreement designed to alleviate long-standing tensions in the volatile Horn of Africa region. This visit, initiated at the request of Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, marks a critical step in fostering cooperation between the two nations. Despite previous conflicts related to Ethiopia’s engagement with Somaliland, recent diplomatic efforts mediated by Turkiye demonstrate a commitment to peace and collaboration.
The contentious relationship between Somalia and Ethiopia has been marked by Ethiopia’s desire for access to the sea, which has historically fueled grievances. One pivotal event was Ethiopia’s signing of a controversial agreement with Somaliland a year prior, which reportedly recognized its independence in exchange for the establishment of military and port facilities on the Red Sea. However, the hope for normalized relations emerged through a peace agreement finalized last month, which promises to pivot towards enhanced collaboration.
The visit also highlighted ongoing uncertainties in the diplomatic landscape. Although Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan indicated that the recent agreement may grant Ethiopia some access to the sea, the specific arrangements remain ambiguous. Additionally, the status of Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland continues to be a matter of concern. Compounding these tensions, Somalian Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi recently engaged in discussions with his Egyptian and Eritrean counterparts, expressing a united front against Ethiopia’s regional maneuvers. Egypt’s Foreign Minister, Badr Abdelatty, articulated their stance on regional security by stating, “The Red Sea and its security is subject only to the will of the countries on its coast…”
In light of these developments, Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia have consolidated their positions against Ethiopia, culminating in closer military collaborations, particularly as Egyptian forces participate in the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) aimed at countering insurgent threats in the region.
The recent visit by President Mohamud represents a possible turning point for Somalia-Ethiopia relations, yet significant challenges and uncertainties loom ahead as the nations navigate these complex dynamics.
The Horn of Africa, comprising Somalia, Ethiopia, Eritrea, and Sudan, experiences a historical backdrop of conflict and rivalry. Somalia and Ethiopia have long grappled with issues stemming from territorial disputes, Ethiopia’s aspirations for coastal access, and the recognition of South Somaliland’s independence, which Ethiopia supports. The region’s diplomatic landscape has shifted with the involvement of external actors such as Turkiye, adding layers of complexity to peace negotiations. The recent establishment of alliances between Somalia, Egypt, and Eritrea in opposition to Ethiopian activities underscores the fragile nature of regional stability, further complicating potential collaborations. Given Ethiopia’s strategic interests and military capabilities, its relationships with neighboring countries are crucial, impacting the broader geopolitical framework of the Horn of Africa. The recent engagements by various foreign ministries indicate an intention to address security concerns on the Red Sea and reestablish equilibrium in regional power dynamics.
The recent visit by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia to Ethiopia underscores a significant diplomatic effort to foster cooperation amidst ongoing tensions in the Horn of Africa. While a peace agreement facilitated by Turkiye appears to have initiated a new phase in bilateral relations, unresolved issues surrounding Ethiopia’s access to the sea and its agreement with Somaliland persist. The emergence of a coalition among Somalia, Egypt, and Eritrea further highlights the complexities of regional security dynamics. Moving forward, both nations will need to address these multifaceted challenges to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
