Somalia and Ethiopia have initiated talks in Ankara, facilitated by Turkey, to implement the Ankara Declaration, which focuses on enhancing diplomatic relations and addressing territorial integrity issues following previous tensions. The discussions aim to resolve past differences while maintaining commitments to peace and cooperation in the region.
Technical teams from Somalia and Ethiopia have commenced discussions in Ankara, Turkey, following formal agreements between their governments orchestrated by President Tayyip Erdogan. According to Daudi Aweis, Somalia’s information minister, these meetings are centered on implementing the Ankara Declaration which signifies the countries’ commitment to fostering peace and strengthening their diplomatic relations.
The discussions follow a notable meeting on February 6, 2025, between Ethiopia’s Foreign Affairs Minister Gedion Timotheos and Turkish Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Burhanettin Duran. Minister Timotheos reiterated Ethiopia’s dedication to the implementation of the Ankara Accord, which had previously been signed by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, and President Tayyip Erdogan.
The Ankara Accord emphasizes the mutual respect of sovereignty and territorial integrity between Somalia and Ethiopia while recognizing the potential benefits for Ethiopia regarding maritime access. The agreement urged both nations to set aside prior differences and work towards a collaborative future, particularly after Somalia accused Ethiopia of compromises to its sovereignty through deals with Somaliland.
Tensions escalated as Somalia entered defense agreements with Egypt and Turkey in response to perceived Ethiopian encroachments. Nonetheless, recognizing the strong ties and commitment to cooperation, Turkey intervened as a mediator to establish technical teams that would facilitate Ethiopia’s engagements with Somalia, focusing on commercial and security interests due to Ethiopia’s presence in Somalia’s peacekeeping efforts.
The recent talks in Ankara mark a pivotal step in Somalia and Ethiopia’s relationship, aiming to address past grievances while fostering cooperation. Both nations are committed to implementing the Ankara Accord, which seeks to enhance diplomatic relations based on mutual respect for sovereignty. Through Turkish mediation, the two countries hope to navigate their differences and capitalize on potential partnership benefits.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
