The East African cooperation bloc, IGAD, commended the Türkiye-mediated agreement between Somalia and Ethiopia, ending nearly a year of tensions. The Ankara Declaration reaffirms mutual sovereignty and outlines plans for further technical negotiations. The agreement underscores the importance of diplomacy in the region, particularly following Ethiopia’s previous port deal with Somaliland.
On Thursday, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), a significant regional entity in East Africa, expressed approval of the recent treaty established between Somalia and Ethiopia, which alleviated nearly a year of strained relations. This agreement emerged from discussions held in Ankara, facilitated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Workneh Gebeyehu, IGAD’s executive secretary, articulated appreciation for Erdogan’s pivotal role in brokering talks that culminated in the Ankara Declaration, highlighting the importance of this accord in reinforcing the social ties between the two neighboring countries.
The Ankara Declaration not only signifies a commitment to amicably resolving bilateral disputes but also articulates mutual respect for each nation’s sovereignty and independence. Gebeyehu underscored the vital need for diplomatic interventions in addressing shared challenges and promoting stability within the Horn of Africa. This cooperative spirit is particularly crucial given the tensions exacerbated by Ethiopia’s prior agreement with Somaliland regarding the strategic port of Berbera.
During a joint press briefing in Ankara, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud conveyed their satisfaction with the progress made. The collaborative statement delineated plans for commencing technical negotiations hosted by Türkiye by February 2025. Historically, the separation of Eritrea from Ethiopia in 1991 has had lasting implications, eliminating Ethiopia’s access to vital Red Sea ports.
Türkiye’s ongoing diplomatic engagement reflects its commitment to fostering regional cooperation, aiming to create a more stable and prosperous Horn of Africa.
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has been instrumental in promoting peace and cooperation across East Africa. The recent Turkey-mediated agreement between Somalia and Ethiopia signifies a critical development in regional diplomacy, addressing longstanding tensions related to political and territorial disputes. Both nations have faced challenges since the split of Eritrea, which deprived Ethiopia of direct sea access. A sustainable resolution to these tensions is essential for enhancing stability and socioeconomic development in the region.
In conclusion, the historic Ankara Declaration represents a pivotal step towards mending relations between Somalia and Ethiopia. The cooperation facilitated by Türkiye showcases the potential for diplomatic dialogue to resolve longstanding issues and emphasizes the necessity for continued collaboration in addressing shared challenges. Such efforts are vital to achieving long-term stability and prosperity in the Horn of Africa.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
