The Ankara Declaration between Ethiopia and Somalia aims to promote peace and stability in the Horn of Africa. It emphasizes mutual respect for sovereignty, economic cooperation, and dialogue to address contentious issues. The agreement, facilitated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, also seeks Ethiopia’s access to the sea, benefiting both countries strategically and economically.
The Ankara Declaration, signed between Ethiopia and Somalia, is anticipated to greatly enhance peace, stability, and prosperity within the Horn of Africa, remarked Fethi Mahdi, Deputy Chairman of the House of People’s Representatives Foreign Relations and Peace Affairs Standing Committee. In an interview with the Ethiopian News Agency (ENA), he emphasized that this agreement is not merely a diplomatic achievement for Ethiopia and Somalia, but also a significant milestone for the African Union, which has played a crucial role in fostering regional peace.
The signing of the Ankara Declaration highlights a collaborative effort between Ethiopia and Somalia, particularly focusing on long-standing issues that have historically plagued their relations. With Ethiopia seeking assured access to the sea—a priority for the nation for many years—the declaration seeks to facilitate such access via peaceful bilateral agreements. The commitment from both nations to prioritize dialogue over conflict further underscores a positive shift in regional diplomacy.
In conclusion, the Ankara Declaration stands as a testament to the potential of diplomatic efforts in achieving lasting peace and mutual respect in the Horn of Africa. With both nations agreeing to a pathway that emphasizes dialogue and cooperation, the agreement not only benefits Ethiopia and Somalia but also reinforces regional unity against external divisive influences. This milestone is critical for setting a standard of positive engagement within the Horn of Africa.
Original Source: www.ena.et
