Ethiopia and Somalia agreed to technical talks to resolve disputes over Somaliland’s independence, facilitated by Turkish mediation. These discussions, starting in February, will focus on respecting Somalia’s territorial integrity while negotiating Ethiopia’s access to the sea, a move that Somalia claims infringes on its sovereignty. The agreement follows Ethiopia’s deal with Somaliland to establish a marine base in exchange for recognition of its independence, which Somalia contests.
Ethiopia and Somalia have recently come to an agreement to engage in “technical talks” aimed at resolving a dispute arising from Ethiopia’s deal with the breakaway region of Somaliland. This agreement was announced following discussions in Turkey, where Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan facilitated the meeting between Somali President Hassan Sheik Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. The talks, set to commence in February and conclude in four months, will focus on respecting Somalia’s territorial integrity while potentially enabling Ethiopia to access the sea, under Somalian sovereignty. This agreement follows Ethiopia’s January memorandum with Somaliland to establish a marine force base in exchange for recognizing Somaliland’s independence—a claim contested by Somalia, which still considers Somaliland part of its territory.
Historically, Somaliland declared its independence from Somalia over 30 years ago but remains unrecognized by the African Union and the United Nations. Meanwhile, Somaliland has developed a stable political environment that starkly contrasts with Somalia’s ongoing security issues. Recent elections in Somaliland have intensified its push for international recognition. Erdogan emphasized the importance of focusing on future cooperation while expressing hopes for Somalia’s acknowledgment of Ethiopia’s need for sea access. Prime Minister Abiy described Ethiopia’s pursuit of secure access to the sea as a peaceful initiative beneficial to all neighbors. Additionally, President Mohamud acknowledged the fragile nature of the Horn of Africa, stressing the necessity for collaboration between Ethiopia and Somalia for mutual benefit.
The dispute between Ethiopia and Somalia primarily revolves around the acknowledgment and territorial claims surrounding Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia over three decades ago. Despite achieving a degree of political stability and governance, Somaliland remains unrecognized internationally. The Ethiopian government’s memorandum with Somaliland, aimed at securing access to the sea, has prompted heightened tensions with Somalia, which views this as a breach of its sovereignty. Turkey’s mediation efforts signify a critical diplomatic approach to easing tensions in a historically volatile region. The planned talks aim to address underlying issues related to territorial integrity while possibly allowing Ethiopia maritime access, crucial for its economic interests.
In conclusion, the forthcoming technical talks between Ethiopia and Somalia aim to resolve a significant diplomatic dispute stemming from Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland. The discussions initiated by Turkey reflect a proactive approach to enhancing regional cooperation, acknowledging each nation’s sovereignty while addressing Ethiopia’s maritime needs. This dialogue is essential for fostering peace and stability in a region marked by historical tensions and insecurity.
Original Source: www.taipeitimes.com
