The African Union has urged Somalia and Ethiopia to promptly implement an agreement to resolve tensions regarding Ethiopia’s access to the sea, a concern heightened by a controversial deal with Somaliland. Following Turkish-mediated talks, both nations agreed to cooperate towards common prosperity while emphasizing the importance of peace and stability in the region. Immediate technical negotiations are expected to commence to facilitate Ethiopia’s maritime access.
The African Union (AU) has urged Ethiopia and Somalia to expeditiously implement a recently brokered agreement aimed at alleviating tensions between the two nations concerning Ethiopia’s maritime access. This call follows Ethiopia’s controversial deal with Somaliland, a region that declared independence from Somalia in 1991, to lease coastal territory for a port and military base. Somalia viewed this arrangement as an infringement upon its sovereignty, escalating concerns about the potential for renewed conflict in the region.
After extensive talks facilitated by Turkey, an “historic” accord was announced, signaling a commitment from both nations to collaborate towards mutual prosperity. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud attended these negotiations, emphasizing shared regional interests in peace and stability. The AU Commission Chairman, Moussa Faki Mahamat, acknowledged the progress made but highlighted the necessity for immediate action on the agreed-upon measures. Furthermore, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) expressed its approval of the agreement as a significant step towards amicable resolution of bilateral issues.
The agreement underscored the commitment of both parties to move past their differences and establish a more cooperative relationship. They pledged to ensure Ethiopia’s reliable access to the sea under the authority of the Somali government, with further technical negotiations set to commence imminently. However, the implications of this agreement for the separate understanding between Somaliland and Ethiopia remain ambiguous, as it has not been publicly disclosed. The Eritrea-Ethiopia conflict of the past resulted in Ethiopia becoming landlocked, making this agreement vital for its access to maritime resources as well as regional trade.
Historically, Ethiopia has sought access to the sea following its loss of coastal territory upon Eritrea’s independence in 1993. The recent tensions stemmed from Ethiopia’s arrangement with Somaliland, a semi-autonomous region that has not gained international recognition from Somalia. The African Union’s involvement signifies a diplomatic effort to mediate ongoing disputes and prevent escalation into armed conflict, particularly amid Somalia’s political volatility and regional security challenges posed by groups like Al-Shabaab. The AU’s calls for cooperation reflect a broader strategy to enhance stability in the Horn of Africa, recognizing shared interests among neighboring nations.
In summary, the African Union has called for immediate action from Ethiopia and Somalia to implement their recent agreement aimed at resolving maritime access disputes. The accord represents a critical step in fostering cooperation and ensuring regional stability, especially given the historical context of landlocked Ethiopia’s need for a coastal outlet. Continued diplomatic engagement will be essential in addressing the complexities arising from the existing agreements with Somaliland and ensuring peace in the region.
Original Source: www.seychellesnewsagency.com
