Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan highlighted the Ethiopia-Somalia agreement, mediated by Türkiye, as a significant step towards achieving fair and sustainable solutions. The Ankara Declaration, established during a meeting in Ankara, outlines the principles for future cooperation and reaffirms both nations’ commitment to sovereignty and peace in the Horn of Africa.
On Thursday, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasized that the recent agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia, facilitated by Türkiye, exemplifies a diplomatic approach aimed at achieving “fair and sustainable” solutions. Speaking on social media platform X, Fidan detailed the importance of the Ankara Declaration, which outlines the foundational principles for cooperation between the two neighboring countries. He articulated that the focus of this agreement is to transcend past grievances and foster a collaborative future.
Minister Fidan underscored the agreement as a significant step towards resolving the entrenched disputes that have long affected the Horn of Africa. He expressed gratitude to both Somalia and Ethiopia for their trust in Turkey’s mediatory role, indicating that Türkiye remains committed to supporting the ongoing process and enhancing bilateral cooperation. This sentiment was echoed following a meeting in Ankara, which saw Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan host Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, during which the pact was publicly announced.
President Erdogan articulated the notion that this agreement heralds a new era characterized by peace and cooperation among the nations involved. The context of these discussions stems from the 1991 independence of Eritrea, which partitioned Ethiopia, rendering it landlocked after losing access to the Red Sea. Trade tensions have persisted in the region, particularly following Ethiopia’s engagement with Somaliland for port access. In a collaborative joint statement, both Somalia and Ethiopia reaffirmed their commitments to sovereignty and independence under the Ankara Declaration, further solidifying the diplomatic foundations laid by Türkiye.
The diplomatic initiative between Ethiopia and Somalia is rooted in a history of regional tensions, particularly following Eritrea’s independence from Ethiopia in 1991. Ethiopia, left without direct access to the Red Sea, has since faced challenges concerning trade and territorial disputes, particularly over the strategic Red Sea port of Berbera. Türkiye’s efforts to mediate these tensions aim to foster stability and enhance cooperation among the Horn of Africa nations. The Ankara Declaration represents a significant commitment from both parties to respect each other’s sovereignty and to work collaboratively towards a peaceful future.
In conclusion, the Ethiopia-Somalia agreement, brokered by Türkiye, marks a pivotal moment in regional diplomacy. It highlights Turkey’s role in promoting peace and stability in East Africa while providing a foundation for future cooperation. The Ankara Declaration serves as a roadmap for addressing longstanding issues and fostering bilateral relations, emphasizing a hopeful outlook for both nations as they seek to move forward together.
Original Source: www.yenisafak.com
