Turkey has successfully mediated a deal between Somalia and Ethiopia to resolve a year-long dispute, heralded by President Erdogan as a historic step towards peace and cooperation. The agreement seeks to facilitate Ethiopia’s access to the sea while respecting Somali sovereignty and involves collaborative discussions set for early 2024.
In a momentous development brokered by Turkey, Somalia and Ethiopia have reached a consensus to resolve a nearly year-long dispute, as announced by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Following extensive discussions lasting eight hours in Ankara, Erdogan characterized the agreement as a “historic agreement” and expressed optimism that it represents “the first step towards a new beginning based on peace and cooperation between Somalia and Ethiopia.” The talks involved Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who sought to mend relations that have deteriorated since Ethiopia’s controversial decision earlier this year to engage with Somaliland regarding a coastal deal, which Somalia viewed as infringing upon its sovereignty.
The Turkish-brokered agreement aims to address Ethiopia’s need for secure maritime access while respecting Somali sovereignty. Both nations committed to enhancing cooperation and establishing commercial arrangements to facilitate Ethiopia’s reliable access to the sea under Somalia’s jurisdiction. Ankara will facilitate subsequent technical discussions, which are to commence by the end of February and conclude within four months, aiming to resolve differing views through dialogue and Turkey’s mediation.
Following the announcement, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed emphasized the peaceful nature of Ethiopia’s quest for maritime access, stating that it is rooted in cooperation rather than distrust. Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud echoed these sentiments, noting that the agreement effectively ends their disagreements and opens the pathway for collaborative efforts. The resolution comes amidst regional tensions, particularly concerning the influence of external actors like Egypt and Eritrea in the Horn of Africa and the intricacies of local security dynamics exacerbated by Ethiopia’s previous military presence in Somalia.
Turkey has actively facilitated dialogue since July, striving to cultivate peace between these neighboring nations amidst rising concerns of renewed conflict in the volatile Horn of Africa. This accord is expected to pave the way for a more stable and cooperative relationship.
The diplomatic relations between Somalia and Ethiopia have been strained mainly due to Ethiopia’s dealings with Somaliland, a breakaway region of Somalia, which Somalis perceive as a disregard for their national sovereignty. Tensions escalated following Ethiopia’s actions to establish a military base and port lease with Somaliland. These events have drawn concerns from various regional players, highlighting the volatile situation in the Horn of Africa, where historical rivalries and recent geopolitical developments intertwine.
The accord brokered by Turkey signifies a crucial turning point in Somalia-Ethiopia relations, fostering a collaborative framework that addresses contentious issues through diplomatic dialogue. By prioritizing cooperation and mutual benefits, the agreement not only aims to alleviate existing tensions but also aims to enhance regional stability in the Horn of Africa.
Original Source: www.france24.com
