Ethiopia is working to mediate relations between Djibouti and Eritrea, emphasizing inclusivity and regional cooperation. Djibouti seeks UN assistance to resolve its border dispute with Eritrea, highlighting ongoing tensions stemming from Eritrea’s occupancy of disputed territories. These developments follow Ethiopia’s peace agreement with Eritrea, representing a potential shift towards stability in the Horn of Africa.
Ethiopia is actively engaging in efforts to mediate and enhance relations between Djibouti and Eritrea, as articulated by its ambassador to the United Nations, Takeda Alemu, during a Security Council session on Monday. Ambassador Alemu underscored Ethiopia’s dedication to fostering a spirit of inclusivity and mutual development within the Horn of Africa. He pointed out the rapidly evolving security dynamics in the region, particularly following the peace agreement between Ethiopia and Eritrea, and more recently, the normalization of relations between Eritrea and Somalia. Ethiopia’s intention to mediate stems from a belief that the stability and progress of the region should benefit all nations involved, leading to diplomatic talks between Ethiopia and Djibouti officials. Alemu remarked, “The prevailing spirit is one of embracing and not excluding anyone. It is in this spirit that we are trying to do our part to contribute toward the restoration of friendly relations between Djibouti and Eritrea.” Furthermore, the ambassador emphasized Ethiopia’s readiness to take necessary steps towards normalizing relations to ensure lasting peace and security within the region. Concurrently, Djibouti has sought assistance from the United Nations to resolve its border dispute with Eritrea. Djibouti’s ambassador to the UN, Mohamed Siad Doualeh, articulated in a letter to the Security Council the need for international mediation to facilitate a mutually acceptable resolution. The letter highlighted a desire for a legally binding agreement to settle the rising tensions concerning the disputed Dumeira mountain and Dumeira island, which Djibouti claims Eritrea unlawfully occupies. The regional landscape has been fraught with complications, including the lasting impact of a UN arms embargo against Eritrea since 2009, tied to allegations of its support for militant groups and aggressions towards Djibouti, particularly around the ongoing border dispute since the withdrawal of Qatari peacekeepers in 2017. The backdrop of these developments includes the historic peace accord between Ethiopia and Eritrea, which concluded a protracted period of hostilities and severed ties resulting from a contested border ruling. Many anticipate that these recent efforts could pave the way for stability and cooperation in a region defined by complex interrelations and historical conflicts.
The Horn of Africa has experienced a tumultuous geopolitical landscape, characterized by long-standing rivalries and conflicts primarily influenced by the tensions between major nations, such as Ethiopia, Eritrea, and Djibouti. The region has seen significant instability, especially related to border disputes and geopolitical alliances. However, the recent peace agreement between Ethiopia and Eritrea signified a turning point, leading to aspirations of collaboration and normalization among neighboring countries. Djibouti’s call for UN mediation in its dispute with Eritrea represents both a commitment to resolve conflicts through dialogue and an effort to stabilize the regional dynamics that affect security and diplomatic relations throughout the Horn of Africa. The backdrop of sanctions against Eritrea and ongoing tensions over disputed territories further complicate these efforts, underlining the necessity for diplomatic intervention and collaborative approaches to conflict resolution.
In summary, Ethiopia is taking a proactive stance in mediating the relationship between Djibouti and Eritrea, highlighting the importance of cooperative progress for regional stability in the Horn of Africa. Djibouti’s request for UN intervention underlines the urgency of addressing unresolved disputes and achieving a peaceful resolution to longstanding tensions. As the dynamics in the Horn evolve following recent peace agreements, the collaboration among these nations is critical for fostering an environment of peace and development, ultimately benefiting the region as a whole.
Original Source: www.africanews.com
