Ethiopian Intelligence Chief Redwan Hussien and Somali counterpart Abdullahi Mohamed Ali met in Addis Ababa to discuss security cooperation, following the Ankara Declaration mediated by Türkiye. The meeting aimed to reinforce commitments amidst mutual security challenges, emphasizing sovereignty and territorial integrity.
On December 24, 2023, Ethiopian Intelligence Chief Redwan Hussien held a significant meeting with his Somali counterpart, Abdullahi Mohamed Ali, in Addis Ababa. This gathering aimed to enhance security collaboration and reaffirm the commitments established in the Ankara Declaration—a pivotal agreement mediated by Türkiye earlier in the month. During the discussions, Hussien stressed the importance of unity in confronting mutual security challenges against external forces attempting to impede progress in the region.
The meeting occurred concurrently with the arrival of a Somali delegation, led by Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ali Omar. This visit also intended to bolster the commitments outlined in the Ankara Declaration, signed on December 12, which marked a decisive improvement in the relations between Ethiopia and Somalia following a period of increased tension. Recently, the dialogue had been strained due to Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland to utilize the Berbera port on the Red Sea, an arrangement that had previously stirred discord in the region. Türkiye played a crucial role in mediating this recent dispute, highlighting its commitment to regional stability.
In their joint statement, the leaders of Somalia and Ethiopia reiterated their adherence to one another’s sovereignty, unity, independence, and territorial integrity, further solidifying the cooperative framework established through the Ankara Declaration. This reaffirmation indicates a strategic alignment between the two nations as they navigate their security landscape in the Horn of Africa, underscoring the necessity of collaboration to confront shared challenges effectively.
The recent meeting between Ethiopian and Somali intelligence officials is situated within a broader context of regional diplomacy and security cooperation initiated by Türkiye. The Ankara Declaration represents a formal effort to mend relations between Ethiopia and Somalia, two nations in the Horn of Africa that have faced tensions, especially concerning territorial disputes and regional influence. Türkiye’s involvement has emerged as a cornerstone in facilitating dialogue and resolving underlying conflicts, exemplified by the tensions arising from Ethiopia’s engagement with the breakaway region of Somaliland.
The meeting between Ethiopian and Somali intelligence chiefs underscores the commitment to security cooperation and mutual respect as articulated in the Ankara Declaration. This critical pact, nurtured through Türkiye’s mediation, aims to strengthen the ties between the two nations while addressing shared security concerns. By emphasizing unity and the commitment to sovereignty, Ethiopia and Somalia are taking significant steps to cultivate a more stable and cooperative regional environment.
Original Source: www.hurriyetdailynews.com
