Ethiopia and Somalia announced the restoration of diplomatic relations after a year of tensions related to coastal access agreements. After discussions between their leaders, both nations aim to expedite technical negotiations and enhance bilateral relations, highlighting a commitment to regional security amidst rising threats from extremist groups.
Ethiopia and Somalia have reached an agreement to restore their diplomatic relations, following tensions that surfaced last year over a Red Sea access agreement. The decision was announced in a joint statement on X on January 11, after Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s visit to Addis Ababa, where he engaged in discussions with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed regarding various bilateral and regional issues of mutual interest, aiming to reinforce the bond between their peoples.
Relations between the two nations soured early in the previous year, when Ethiopia entered a preliminary agreement with Somaliland, Somalia’s breakaway region, to lease coastal land for commercial development and establish a naval base. This deal was perceived by Somalia as a violation of its territorial integrity, resulting in Mogadishu taking significant retaliatory actions, including the expulsion of Ethiopia’s ambassador and the closure of its consulates.
In a bid to improve their standing, Somalia sought closer ties with Egypt and Eritrea, forming a three-way cooperation agreement focused on regional security. Tensions prompted a mediation effort by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on December 11, which encouraged both nations to agree on practical arrangements ensuring Ethiopia’s access to the sea while maintaining Somali sovereignty.
During their discussions on January 11, the two leaders committed to accelerating the forthcoming technical negotiations that would address landlocked Ethiopia’s needs. They also expressed intentions to re-establish and enhance diplomatic relations through full representation in their respective capitals and emphasized cooperative security measures against extremist threats in the region.
The restoration of diplomatic ties between Ethiopia and Somalia marks a significant step in the context of formerly strained relations due to disagreements over territorial and maritime rights. Ethiopia’s deal with Somaliland stirred considerable backlash within Somalia, leading to escalated diplomatic tensions. With both nations recognizing the need for stable relations amidst security challenges posed by extremist groups, their recent engagements reflect a mutual desire for dialogue and cooperation.
Ethiopia and Somalia’s recent commitment to restore diplomatic relations signifies a positive shift in their interactions after a year marked by conflict over maritime agreements. Both nations are prioritizing the establishment of effective diplomatic channels and cooperative security measures. The outcome of impending technical negotiations will be crucial for ensuring that Ethiopia gains essential access to maritime routes while respecting Somalia’s territorial claims.
Original Source: new.finalcall.com
