Ethiopia and Somalia have resolved to collaborate to address their differences over a military base deal in Somaliland, with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announcing the agreement. Following prior objections from Somalia, both nations aim to clear contentious issues and engage in negotiations by February 2025, with potential benefits for regional security.
Ethiopia and Somalia have reached an agreement to collaboratively address their disagreements regarding a controversial deal that permits Addis Ababa to establish a military base along the coast of the Somaliland region. In exchange, Somaliland is set to receive an unspecified equity stake in Ethiopian Airlines. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced this development while mediating discussions between Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.
Following the terms of a prior agreement dated January 1, where Somaliland permitted Ethiopia to build a military base on its coastline, Somalia expressed its objections, citing violations of national integrity. Despite Somaliland’s unrecognized status since declaring independence in 1991, Ethiopian influence in the region has grown amid Turkish efforts for mediation. The de-escalation of tensions comes after the election of a new leader in Somaliland, raising uncertainties about the region’s commitment to the deal with Ethiopia.
The Ankara Declaration allows both nations to put aside past grievances and opens the floor for technical negotiations to tackle outstanding issues by February 2025. Analysts view the meeting between the leaders as a positive indication, despite the lack of new content in the agreement. A key benefit could be the continued presence of Ethiopian troops in Somalia’s ongoing fight against extremist threats.
The geopolitical dynamics between Ethiopia, Somalia, and Somaliland have remained complex, particularly following Somaliland’s declaration of independence in 1991, which has not received international endorsement. Recent developments have escalated tensions, particularly with Ethiopia’s attempts to forge operational military ties with Somaliland, countered by Somalia’s assertion of sovereignty. Turkish involvement reflects its strategic interests in expanding its influence within Africa, particularly concerning energy security and diplomatic engagements. The evolving political landscape following recent elections in Somaliland adds another layer to this intricate relationship.
In summary, the agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia represents a pivotal step towards resolving longstanding disputes linked to territorial integrity and regional security. Under Turkish mediation, the leaders aim to foster peace and collaboration, which may also facilitate the ongoing presence of Ethiopian troops in Somalia against the backdrop of an evolving security landscape. The successful implementation of the Ankara Declaration will depend largely on both nations’ commitments to negotiate forthcoming challenges by early 2025.
Original Source: financialpost.com
