The East African bloc praises the Somalia-Ethiopia agreement facilitated by Türkiye, resolving tensions that persisted for nearly a year. The agreement, reached during talks in Ankara, symbolizes a commitment to strengthen relations and address bilateral challenges amicably. Turkish President Erdogan’s mediation efforts were acknowledged as vital in achieving this diplomatic breakthrough, paving the way for negotiations to commence by February 2025.
The East African regional cooperation organization has expressed its approval of the significant agreement reached between Somalia and Ethiopia, effectively concluding nearly a year of heightened tensions. This landmark agreement emerged from successful discussions held in Turkey’s capital, Ankara, under the mediation of Turkish officials. Gebeyehu, a representative from the organization, emphasized that this substantial accord represents a pivotal advancement in reinforcing the longstanding social connections between the two nations, showcasing their resolve to amicably address bilateral challenges.
Highlighting the critical role played by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in fostering diplomatic initiatives, Gebeyehu remarked on the essential nature of such collaborations in tackling common obstacles while promoting stability and prosperity in the Horn of Africa. The recent discord stemmed from Ethiopia’s arrangements with Somaliland regarding the utilization of the Berbera port, a strategic asset in the region.
During a news briefing in Ankara, Presidents Erdogan, Abiy Ahmed of Ethiopia, and Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia announced this pivotal agreement. The joint declaration underlined mutual respect for sovereignty, unity, and independence, and both nations committed to initiating technical negotiations facilitated by Türkiye by February 2025, with intentions to finalize discussions within a four-month period. This accord is especially significant in the context of the historical backdrop of regional tensions and the impacts of Eritrea’s independence from Ethiopia in 1991, which complicated Ethiopia’s access to vital maritime routes.
The agreement between Somalia and Ethiopia is the culmination of attempts to mitigate regional disputes that arose following Ethiopia’s deal with the breakaway region of Somaliland. This agreement is significant as it addresses long-standing tensions and represents a reconciliatory step within the Horn of Africa. The historical context involving Eritrea’s independence in 1991 is pivotal as it has influenced Ethiopia’s geopolitical situation, particularly regarding access to maritime resources, complicating relations within the region. The East African bloc’s commending of this agreement acknowledges both the efforts made by Türkiye to mediate the conflicts and the inherent need for stability in a region marked by complex interrelations.
In conclusion, the recent agreement between Somalia and Ethiopia, facilitated by Türkiye, marks a critical juncture in East African diplomacy, emphasizing collaboration and mutual respect. The commendation from the East African bloc underscores the collective aspiration for stability in the Horn of Africa, reflecting a strategic commitment to resolving long-standing issues. This development highlights the importance of ongoing diplomatic efforts in fostering regional peace and cooperation.
Original Source: news.az
