Qatar has welcomed a Türkiye-mediated agreement between Somalia and Ethiopia aimed at resolving their disputes, viewing it as a crucial step towards peace and cooperation. The pact was agreed upon during a meeting in Ankara led by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, where both countries affirmed their commitment to each other’s sovereignty. This agreement follows tensions exacerbated by Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland regarding the Berbera port.
Qatar has expressed its approval of a Türkiye-mediated agreement aimed at resolving the long-standing differences between Somalia and Ethiopia. A statement released by Qatar’s Foreign Ministry characterized the pact as a significant advancement that lays the groundwork for technical negotiations focused on a comprehensive resolution to the bilateral dispute. It articulated optimism that both nations would actively engage in these discussions, fostering constructive collaboration that aligns with the aspirations for stability and prosperity of their respective peoples and enhancing peace within the Horn of Africa region.
The Ministry also commended Türkiye’s instrumental role in facilitating this consensus. The agreement was formally announced in Ankara during a meeting hosted by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, which included the leaders of Somalia and Ethiopia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Abiy Ahmed. President Erdogan remarked that this initiative signifies the commencement of a new era built on peace and cooperation between the two countries. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to respecting each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in accordance with international law and the principles of the United Nations and the African Union.
The backdrop of this agreement stemmed from escalating tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia, particularly following Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland to utilize the Berbera port on January 1. Türkiye has been actively working to alleviate these tensions and promote a collaborative spirit between the two nations.
The Somali-Ethiopian dispute has roots in historical territorial disagreements and recent geopolitical maneuvers, notably Ethiopia’s engagement with Somaliland, which has further complicated the dynamics in the Horn of Africa. The Berbera port agreement prompted concerns in Somalia, leading to a diplomatic rift. Türkiye has sought to mediate these tensions, underpinning its strategic interest in promoting stability in the region and enhancing its diplomatic relations with both nations.
In summary, the Türkiye-mediated pact is a vital step toward resolving longstanding disputes between Somalia and Ethiopia, promoting cooperative relations, and improving regional stability. Qatar has praised this initiative, emphasizing the importance of technical negotiations that can lead to lasting peace and collaboration. The engagement of Türkiye as a mediator marks a significant diplomatic effort aimed at fostering a peaceful coexistence between the two East African nations.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
