ATMIS has praised an agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia that aims to resolve their dispute over Ethiopia’s port construction plans in Somaliland. Leaders from both countries, under Turkish mediation, pledged mutual respect for sovereignty and are committed to implementing the agreement to foster regional peace and stability. This follows earlier tensions stemming from Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland, which severely strained relations with Somalia.
The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) has expressed strong support for an agreement reached between Ethiopia and Somalia aimed at resolving their longstanding dispute regarding Ethiopia’s plans to construct a port in Somaliland, a region that is administratively part of Somalia. Mohamed El-Amine Souef, the Special Representative of the African Union Commission for Somalia and Head of ATMIS, characterized the agreement, signed in Ankara, Turkey, as a model of leadership essential for fostering peace and stability in the region. He reiterated ATMIS’s dedication to aiding Somalia in its pursuit of state-building and security transition, aligned with both the aspirations of the Somali people and the African Union’s objectives for a stable continent.
Additionally, Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, applauded the agreement formed between Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, which took place under the guidance of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Citing the leaders’ willingness to prioritize one another’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, Mahamat emphasized the urgency of implementing the agreed measures to reinforce collaboration and trust.
The backdrop of this agreement highlights rising tensions arising from Ethiopia’s prior agreement with Somaliland, which had permitted Ethiopia access to the Red Sea in return for recognizing Somaliland as an independent state, a move that Somalia repudiated. The joint statement from leaders reaffirmed their commitment to respect each other’s sovereignty while paving the way for Ethiopia to secure maritime access.
Historically, the relationship between Somalia and Ethiopia has been fraught with challenges, particularly regarding territorial disputes and the status of Somaliland, a self-declared independent region that Somalia considers part of its territory. Recent developments included an agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland, which intensified existing tensions with Somalia. This latest accord, brokered with the involvement of Turkey, is seen as a significant step towards ensuring regional peace and security, as both nations seek to address outstanding issues collaboratively.
In summary, the agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia represents a crucial diplomatic achievement aimed at resolving a long-standing dispute that has implications for regional stability. The support from ATMIS and the African Union highlights the importance of international cooperation and effective dialogue. Implementing the agreed terms will be essential in enhancing mutual trust, cooperation, and the ongoing peace process in the Horn of Africa.
Original Source: www.socialnews.xyz
