The African Union has called for the immediate implementation of a new agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia designed to ease tensions over Ethiopia’s maritime access. Following a controversial deal involving Somaliland, which Somalia sees as a violation of its sovereignty, Turkish-mediated talks have resulted in commitments to cooperate and conduct technical discussions concerning Ethiopia’s access to the sea, emphasizing peaceful resolution.
The African Union has formally urged Ethiopia and Somalia to promptly implement a significant agreement aimed at alleviating ongoing tensions between the two nations regarding Ethiopia’s access to the sea. This appeal follows a breakthrough deal established in January, where Ethiopia secured a lease for a maritime strip with Somalia’s breakaway region, Somaliland. Somalia has condemned this agreement, claiming it infringes upon its sovereignty and has raised international concerns about potential conflict resurgence in East Africa.
The deal was brokered through Turkish mediation, which led to an agreement intended to foster cooperation and mutual prosperity between Ethiopia and Somalia. As part of the agreement, the two nations committed to addressing contentious issues amicably and facilitating Ethiopia’s sustainable sea access under Somalia’s sovereignty. Technical discussions are slated to begin shortly, projected to conclude by the end of June, ensuring that both parties remain engaged in productive dialogue.
African Union Commission Chairman Moussa Faki Mahamat recognized the significance of this accord and emphasized the urgent need for timely implementation. Furthermore, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has expressed support for the agreement, validating it as a critical step toward resolving bilateral disputes peacefully. This development underscores Ethiopia’s longstanding desire for coastal access, which has been a point of contention since Eritrea’s independence in 1993, resulting in Ethiopia becoming landlocked and intensifying its regional relationships, particularly with nations like Egypt.
The agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia arises from historical conflicts over Ethiopia’s access to the sea, a situation exacerbated since Eritrea gained independence in 1993. Ethiopia’s engagement with Somaliland for a coastal lease has provoked Somali governmental concerns about territorial sovereignty. The recent Turkish-brokered negotiations symbolize a collaborative attempt to mitigate those tensions and enhance regional stability. Through this alliance, both countries aim to develop commercial ties and address longstanding geopolitical concerns while fostering peace in the Horn of Africa.
In summary, the African Union’s call for the swift execution of the Ethiopia-Somalia agreement marks a crucial step towards stabilizing regional relations. With both nations committed to addressing shared interests and disputes through dialogue, the potential for improved cooperation and growth appears promising. It is paramount for the involved parties to prioritize urgent implementation to avoid exacerbating tensions that have historically plagued the region.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
