The diplomatic dispute between Ethiopia and Somalia has been resolved, as confirmed by Somali Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi. Although Somalia claims no concessions were made, both countries have agreed to strengthen their bilateral relations, particularly concerning the African Union peacekeeping mission. Following Turkey’s mediation efforts, Ethiopia and Somalia plan to hold technical talks in February 2025, striving for mutually beneficial arrangements regarding maritime access under Somalia’s sovereignty.
The diplomatic rift between Ethiopia and Somalia appears to have been resolved, according to Somalia’s Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, who emphasized that the nation made no compromises in the negotiations. In a recent statement broadcast on state television, Fiqi noted the two countries have established an agreement to enhance their bilateral relations. These developments follow heightened tensions resulting from Ethiopia’s maritime agreement with Somaliland, a territory that Somalia claims as its own.
Ties between the two nations deteriorated significantly after Ethiopia’s maritime deal with Somaliland was publicized earlier this year, which Somalia perceived as a violation of its sovereignty. However, following an Ethiopian delegation’s visit to Somalia led by Defence Minister Aisha Mohammed, both countries have expressed a commitment to collaborate on key matters, including the future of the African Union peacekeeping mission in Somalia, signaling a shift toward improved relations.
Turkey’s mediation efforts last month were vital in initiating this thaw in relations. A joint declaration issued in December confirmed that the two neighbors would engage in further technical discussions in February 2025, focusing on establishing mutually beneficial commercial arrangements that would enable Ethiopia access to maritime routes under Somalia’s sovereignty. While it remains uncertain whether Ethiopia has abandoned its agreement with Somaliland, both nations have agreed to recognize each other’s territorial integrity, a significant step toward reconciliation.
Ethiopia and Somalia share a complex and often contentious relationship that has been influenced by territorial disputes, particularly regarding the recognition of Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia over three decades ago. Recent tensions escalated when Ethiopia formalized a maritime agreement with Somaliland, complicating Somalia’s territorial claims. The geopolitical dynamics in the region, including alliances with external actors like Egypt, have further strained relations. Turkey’s role as a mediator has been pivotal in alleviating these tensions, leading both countries to commit to dialogue and collaborative efforts moving forward.
The easing of tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia marks a significant diplomatic achievement, demonstrating that through dialogue and international mediation, longstanding disputes can be addressed. Both countries have signaled their commitment to fostering stronger ties and recognizing each other’s sovereignty, paving the way for future collaborations, especially in peacekeeping and trade. Nevertheless, the implications of Ethiopia’s previous agreements with Somaliland remain uncertain, necessitating careful negotiation in the months ahead.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
