Somalia and Ethiopia have successfully resolved a year-long dispute, announced during a press conference in Ankara with the involvement of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The agreement, resulting from Türkiye-mediated negotiations, aims to foster regional stability. This development follows tensions arising from Ethiopia’s partnership with Somaliland regarding the Berbera port, highlighting the nations’ cultural and historical ties.
On Wednesday, Somalia and Ethiopia announced the successful resolution of a year-long dispute, heralding a momentous step toward regional stability. This announcement was made during a press conference in Ankara, where Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud revealed that Türkiye-mediated peace talks had culminated in an agreement, effectively putting an end to their protracted conflict.
The tensions between the nations flared following Ethiopia’s agreement with the self-declared republic of Somaliland for the utilization of the Berbera port on the Red Sea, formalized in January 2024. This agreement raised concerns in Somalia as Ethiopia, having lost its direct access to the sea after Eritrea’s independence in 1991, had been landlocked, hindering its maritime trade capabilities. After extensive negotiations backed by Türkiye, both nations resolved to move forward and prioritize their mutual interests in peace and regional security.
During the press conference, President Mohamud expressed gratitude to Türkiye for its diplomatic efforts, affirming Somalia’s unwavering support for Ethiopia. He emphasized the historical and cultural ties that bind the two countries, noting their shared heritage and common goals. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed similarly acknowledged the importance of the peace talks, reflecting on the sacrifices made by Ethiopian soldiers in their commitment to securing Somalia’s safety against terrorism. He asserted that Ethiopia and Somalia are not merely neighboring nations but are bound by fraternal ties and shared destinies.
The recent resolution between Somalia and Ethiopia emerges from a complex historical context characterized by contentious relations and territorial disputes. The conflict intensified following Ethiopia’s strategic partnership with Somaliland concerning the Berbera port, which aggravated long-standing grievances related to trade and territorial rights. With Ethiopia being landlocked since 1991, the issue of access to maritime routes became critical. Türkiye’s intervention in facilitating peace talks demonstrates the role of regional powers in fostering diplomacy among neighboring states, aiming for broader stability in the Horn of Africa.
In summary, the agreement reached between Somalia and Ethiopia marks a significant milestone in their diplomatic relations and regional stability. The resolution of the year-long dispute highlights the crucial role of mediated dialogue, particularly by Türkiye, in addressing the complex issues faced by these neighboring countries. Both nations acknowledge their intertwined histories and the importance of cooperating to ensure mutual peace, security, and prosperity moving forward.
Original Source: al24news.com
