ATMIS has welcomed an agreement between Somalia and Ethiopia aimed at resolving a dispute over a port in Somaliland. The deal, signed in Ankara, reflects commitment to regional peace and sets the stage for improved cooperation. African Union leaders encouraged the swift implementation of the agreement to bolster mutual trust and stability.
The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) has expressed its approval of the recent agreement signed between Somalia and Ethiopia, aimed at resolving their contentious issue regarding Ethiopia’s proposed port development in Somaliland. Mohamed El-Amine Souef, the Special Representative of the African Union Commission for Somalia and head of ATMIS, characterized the agreement—consummated in Ankara—as a significant leadership achievement conducive to fostering regional peace and stability.
Souef asserted ATMIS’s unwavering commitment to assist Somalia in its state-building and security transition endeavors, driven by the aspirations of the Somali populace and the African Union’s broader vision for a prosperous Africa. He encouraged both parties to honor the agreement and strengthen their collaborative efforts.
Additionally, Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, lauded the accord reached between Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on December 11 in Ankara, under the mediation of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Mahamat emphasized the gravity of this gesture of responsibility by both leaders and urged for prompt implementation of the agreed measures.
Rising tensions had previously materialized between Somalia and Ethiopia after an agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland, which reportedly granted Ethiopia access to the Red Sea in exchange for recognizing Somaliland as an independent region—an arrangement denounced by Somalia. The communique from Ankara reaffirmed both leaders’ respect for each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, paving the way for mutual cooperation regarding maritime access.
The article discusses a significant diplomatic agreement between Somalia and Ethiopia, brokered in response to rising regional tensions over the status of Somaliland. This agreement is pivotal as it addresses Ethiopia’s ambitions for a port in Somaliland while managing Somalia’s concerns about sovereignty. The involvement of the African Union and support from Turkish leadership highlights the broader implications for regional stability and cooperation. Furthermore, the historical context of recognition disputes surrounding Somaliland adds complexity to the situation.
In summary, the recent agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia represents a constructive approach to resolving longstanding tensions over Somaliland. The African Union, through ATMIS, has affirmed its dedication to supporting this transition and fostering a peaceful resolution. Both nations’ leadership must act swiftly to implement this agreement, which promises to enhance mutual trust and promote regional stability.
Original Source: www.socialnews.xyz
