Ethiopian and Somali Presidents reached a crucial agreement in Ankara to resolve conflicts over Ethiopia’s access to the Arabian Sea, mediated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The agreement follows Ethiopia’s controversial port lease deal with Somaliland, potentially averting military escalation. Turkey’s long-standing ties and interests in the region position it as a key mediator as both nations prepare for further discussions in February.
In a significant development aimed at resolving the Ethiopia-Somalia conflict, Ethiopian President Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud have announced a pivotal agreement in Ankara, facilitated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The accord seeks to address a prolonged dispute over Ethiopia’s access to the Arabian Sea, a matter crucial for the landlocked nation’s development following Eritrea’s secession in 1993. The negotiations come after Ethiopia sought to lease port facilities in Somaliland, prompting Somalia to threaten the expulsion of Ethiopian military personnel aiding in the fight against al-Shabab terrorists. This situation carries echoes of the historical tensions stemming from the Ogaden War of 1977-78, illustrating the volatility of the region.
Turkey’s involvement is reflective of its deep-rooted connections with both Ethiopia and Somalia, coupled with its strategic interest in maintaining stability in the Horn of Africa. Notably, Turkey has established its largest overseas military base in Somalia and provided military support to the Ethiopian government during the Tigray conflict. The recent agreement is expected to bolster Turkey’s stature as a significant player in African security matters. Furthermore, it opens avenues for enhanced economic cooperation, as Turkish investments in Ethiopia exceed $2 billion, second only to China.
As a follow-up to this agreement, representatives from both nations are scheduled to convene for “technical talks” in February, aimed at finalizing the specifics regarding port access. The ongoing dialogue underscores the critical importance of diplomatic resolutions to transnational disputes, particularly in a region historically fraught with conflict.
The conflict between Ethiopia and Somalia is rooted in Ethiopia’s status as a landlocked country, resulting from Eritrea’s independence in 1993. This lack of direct access to maritime routes has hindered Ethiopia’s economic development. In an effort to secure port access, Ethiopia arranged a controversial deal with Somaliland, which reignited tensions with Somalia, culminating in threats against Ethiopian troops stationed in Somalia. The potential for conflict escalation looms, given the region’s historical disputes. Turkey’s involvement stems from its strategic and diplomatic interests, particularly its military ties with Somalia and support of Ethiopia amid the Tigray war, establishing Turkey as a pivotal mediator.
The agreement brokered in Ankara between Ethiopia and Somalia, mediated by Turkey, represents a crucial step toward resolving a longstanding conflict over port access. With Turkey emerging as an influential mediator, the accord not only aims to stabilize regional tensions but also positions Turkey as a significant player in Africa’s security landscape. Moving forward, the forthcoming technical talks promise to delineate the operational framework for the renewed cooperative relationship between Ethiopia and Somalia, with implications for trade and regional stability.
Original Source: www.gzeromedia.com
