ATMIS praised the agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia intended to resolve a dispute over a port in Somaliland, emphasizing its importance for regional peace and stability. Special Representative Mohamed El-Amine Souef urged both nations to implement the accord to build trust and cooperation, underscoring the legitimacy of the leaders’ commitment to one another’s sovereignty.
The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) has expressed its commendation regarding a recent agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia aimed at resolving a contentious dispute over Ethiopia’s intention to construct a port in Somaliland. Mohamed El-Amine Souef, the Special Representative of the African Union Commission for Somalia and Head of ATMIS, characterized this agreement, signed in Ankara, Turkey, as a noteworthy demonstration of leadership essential for fostering regional peace and security. In a statement from Mogadishu, he emphasized ATMIS’s commitment to supporting Somalia’s journey towards state-building and security transition, which aligns with both the aspirations of the Somali populace and the broader vision of the African Union for a stable Africa.
Souef further urged both nations to diligently execute the agreed-upon measures to build mutual trust and enhance cooperation. He echoed sentiments made earlier by the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, who lauded the efforts of Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in signing the December 11 agreement that addresses the implications of Ethiopia’s dealings with Somaliland, acknowledged by Ethiopia as an independent entity.
The underlying tensions had intensified following reports of an agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland granting Ethiopia access to the Red Sea, an arrangement that Somalia firmly rejected. In their joint statement in Ankara, both leaders reiterated their commitment to respect each other’s sovereignty and pledged to collaborate on establishing concrete arrangements for Ethiopia’s maritime access.
The recent agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia has emerged from a complex backdrop of geopolitical tensions involving Somaliland, a self-declared independent region of Somalia. The dispute intensified when Ethiopia and Somaliland reached an agreement that allowed Ethiopia access to the Red Sea, a move that Somalia condemned. The mediation efforts by external parties, including Turkey, serve to underscore the significance of diplomacy in the Horn of Africa, which is essential for enhancing stability and cooperation in the region.
In conclusion, the agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia, welcomed by the African Union Transition Mission, represents a vital step toward resolving long-standing regional tensions. The collaborative efforts between Somali and Ethiopian leadership signify a commitment to peace and mutual respect for sovereignty, which is crucial for advancing security and stability in the Horn of Africa. Continuous implementation of the agreed measures will be essential in fostering trust and cooperation moving forward.
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