Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is en route to Turkey for the third round of talks with Ethiopia to mitigate rising tensions over Somaliland’s disputed status. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s potential attendance would be historic amidst Mogadishu’s opposition to Ethiopia’s plans for a port in Somaliland, which might shift regional alliances and stability.
Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is traveling to Ankara, Turkey, for the third round of discussions with Ethiopia, as reported by the state news agency. This meeting is crucial for addressing the rising tensions triggered by Ethiopia’s plans to establish a port in Somalia’s self-declared independent region of Somaliland. If Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed participates, it will mark their first encounter since these intentions provoked significant discontent from Mogadishu, which vehemently opposes Somaliland’s independence aspirations.
The backdrop of this diplomatic effort is the ongoing dispute between Somalia and Ethiopia over Somaliland. This region has declared independence since 1991 but has not garnered international recognition. The recent tensions escalated when Ethiopia signaled its intent to recognize Somaliland’s autonomy, which Mogadishu perceives as a direct threat to its sovereignty. Furthermore, Ethiopia has maintained a military presence in Somalia to combat extremist influences, contributing to the complex regional dynamics involving neighbors such as Egypt and Eritrea, who are also at odds with Ethiopia.
The negotiations between Somalia and Ethiopia, mediated by Turkey, are crucial for stabilizing relations between the two nations and addressing regional security concerns. The outcome of these talks may significantly affect the geopolitical landscape in the Horn of Africa, particularly regarding Somalia’s territorial claims and the recognition of Somaliland.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
