Ethiopia has not yet responded to Djibouti’s proposal aimed at easing tensions with Somalia, which includes offering joint management of the Tojarah port for trade. While Somalia is open to commercial agreements, it firmly opposes any military presence on its territory. Turkey’s mediation efforts between Ethiopia and Somalia have faced challenges as well.
Ethiopia has remained unresponsive to Djibouti’s initiative aimed at reducing tensions with Somalia, despite the proposal receiving backing from various international entities. Djibouti’s Foreign Affairs Minister Mohamoud Ali Youssouf stated last month that his country is prepared to mediate the ongoing maritime disputes related to Ethiopia’s access to sea routes. He indicated that Djibouti is willing to offer a port, notably the Tojarah port in northern Djibouti, for joint administration between the two nations. Djibouti’s offer is critical for Ethiopia, a landlocked country that depends on neighboring territories for trade. Ethiopia’s aspirations for maritime access include an existing Memorandum of Understanding with Somaliland, a region that has declared independence from Somalia. Youssouf expressed confidence about the proposal’s potential benefits, stating, “The proposal remains on the table. We aim to reduce tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia by offering a northern port to Ethiopia for commercial use.” While Somalia asserts its position against allowing military installations on its territory, it has expressed readiness to establish commercial relations with Ethiopia concerning the port. Mohamoud emphasized that while Ethiopia can receive commercial access, any military presence would not be permitted. Efforts by Turkey to mediate the situation have also seen setbacks. A proposed meeting between Ethiopia and Somalia was thwarted when Somalia demanded Ethiopia withdraw the agreement with Somaliland prior to further negotiations.
The geographical and political tensions surrounding Ethiopia’s access to maritime routes have significant implications in the Horn of Africa. Djibouti, situated closely to Ethiopia, seeks to leverage its ports to foster economic collaboration while addressing the concerns around military presence on Somali soil. The dynamic illustrates the delicate balance of power and sovereignty in the region, with Ethiopia striving for logistical and trade advantages without escalating military conflict.
The ongoing silence from Ethiopia regarding Djibouti’s proposal showcases the complexities surrounding regional diplomacy in the Horn of Africa. The offer for port access aims to facilitate peaceful trade relations and diminish tensions with Somalia, yet requires careful navigation of political sensitivities regarding sovereignty and military presence. As Djibouti awaits Ethiopia’s response, the future of these negotiations remains uncertain, underlining the intricate web of alliances and interests in the region.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
