The diplomatic dispute between Ethiopia and Somalia has been resolved, according to Somalia’s Foreign Minister. Despite Ethiopia’s silence on the claims made by Somalia, both nations have agreed to strengthen their bilateral relations. This development follows Turkey’s mediation and a visit from an Ethiopian delegation, focusing on the peacekeeping mission in Somalia. The countries will conduct further technical talks in February to discuss mutually beneficial agreements.
Ethiopia and Somalia have reportedly resolved a diplomatic dispute that had strained relations between the two nations. Somalia’s Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi stated that the resolution came without concessions from Somalia, while Ethiopia has acknowledged their agreement to bolster bilateral relations. This dispute escalated following Ethiopia’s maritime deal with Somaliland, a territory that Somalia claims as its own. Following a recent visit from an Ethiopian delegation, a commitment was made to collaborate on the ongoing peacekeeping mission in Somalia, despite previous tensions surrounding the future role of Ethiopian troops stationed there. Under the guidance of Turkey, both nations have moved towards a more cooperative stance, agreeing to recognize each other’s sovereignty and engage in discussions regarding commercial arrangements that would allow Ethiopia sea access while respecting Somalia’s territorial integrity.
The longstanding territorial dispute stems from historical grievances and political complexities in the Horn of Africa. Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia over three decades ago, has sought formal recognition as an independent state, a move opposed by Somalia. The tensions further escalated when Ethiopia signed a deal with Somaliland for maritime access, heightening Somalia’s fears of encroachment on its sovereignty. The involvement of Turkey as a mediator reflects broader geopolitical interests in the region, which has witnessed shifting alliances and rising tensions, particularly concerning the roles of Egypt and Ethiopia as regional powers. The current rapprochement indicates a potential thawing of relations, highlighting the importance of diplomatic engagement in addressing underlying tensions.
The resolution of the diplomatic dispute between Ethiopia and Somalia marks a significant step towards stabilizing relations in a historically contentious region. The acknowledgment of each other’s sovereignty and the commitment to collaborative efforts in peacekeeping signal a positive shift in regional diplomacy. However, the ongoing complexities surrounding the Somaliland deal and Ethiopia’s operational status in Somalia necessitate continuous dialogue and careful navigation to ensure lasting peace and mutual benefit in the Horn of Africa.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
