Ethiopia and Somalia commenced their first technical talks in Turkey to resolve a dispute related to an agreement between Ethiopia and the breakaway region of Somaliland. Turkey is mediating these discussions due to concerns over potential conflict in the region, which have escalated since Ethiopia signed a lease agreement last year with Somaliland for coastal territory.
In Ankara, Turkey, officials from Ethiopia and Somalia convened on Tuesday for their initial round of technical discussions, aimed at addressing a dispute primarily arising from an agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland, a self-declared independent region of Somalia. The Turkish Foreign Ministry announced the meeting, highlighting Turkey’s role as a mediator in the ongoing tensions between the Horn of Africa nations. These tensions intensified following a memorandum of understanding signed by Ethiopia with Somaliland last year, which involved leasing coastal land to develop a marine force base, raising concerns about stability in the region.
The recent technical talks between Ethiopia and Somalia signify an important diplomatic effort to mitigate disputes stemming from earlier agreements involving Somaliland. Turkey’s involvement as a mediator underlines the urgency of achieving a peaceful resolution in a region marked by volatility. The development is a positive step towards fostering dialogue and reducing tensions in the Horn of Africa.
Original Source: www.goshennews.com
