Ethiopia’s Foreign Affairs State Minister reaffirmed commitment to the Ankara Agreement after discussions with a Somali delegation, emphasizing the importance of bilateral relations and peace. Both nations aim to deepen cooperation, following a recent history of strained relations stemming from territorial disputes. The Nairobi Declaration is pivotal in restoring diplomatic ties, with plans for a Turkish presidential visit forthcoming.
Ethiopia’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Mesganu Arga, reaffirmed the nation’s dedication to the full implementation of the Ankara Agreement during discussions with a Somali delegation headed by Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Ali Omar. The delegation’s visit, which commenced on December 23, 2024, represented the first formal engagement from Somalia post the signing of the Ankara Declaration. The talks were aimed at bolstering bilateral relations and strategizing on effective implementation of the agreement.
The Ankara Declaration, signed by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, emphasizes mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. The discussions highlighted both parties’ commitment to continue their dialogue to enhance collaboration and stability in the region. Ambassador Mesganu remarked, “Peace in Somalia is peace for Ethiopia,” underlining the interconnected nature of stability in both nations.
Minister Ali Omar characterized the discussions as highly productive, reiterating Somalia’s ongoing commitment to deepen cooperation under the Ankara Agreement. This agreement emerged in light of deteriorating relations earlier in 2024, following Ethiopia’s memorandum of understanding with Somaliland regarding coastal leasing issues. The reconciliation efforts encapsulated in the Ankara Declaration are viewed favorably by international stakeholders, including the African Union and Western governments, as a step towards renewed cooperation between Ethiopia and Somalia. Furthermore, plans are underway for Turkish President Erdoğan to visit both Ethiopia and Somalia in early 2025, which underscores the growing importance of this diplomatic relationship.
The discussions between Ethiopia and Somalia are situated within the context of a recent diplomatic effort aimed at reaffirming bilateral ties following a tumultuous period characterized by strain over territorial disputes. The Ankara Declaration, signed by leaders from Ethiopia, Somalia, and Turkey, is pivotal in establishing protocols respecting national sovereignty while fostering cooperative economic engagements. The backdrop of this dialogue includes Ethiopian actions perceived as undermining Somalia’s territorial claims, specifically the lease arrangement with Somaliland, prompting urgent diplomatic engagements to resolve tensions and strengthen political alliances in the Horn of Africa.
In summary, the discussions held by Ethiopia and Somalia demonstrate a strong commitment to the Ankara Agreement, highlighting the importance of cooperation and stability in the region. Ambassador Mesganu’s assertion that “peace in Somalia is peace for Ethiopia” encapsulates the essence of their collaboration, while both nations seek to move past previous tensions and focus on mutual respect and development. The anticipated visit from Turkish President Erdoğan further solidifies the multi-national commitment to restore and enhance diplomatic relations among these states.
Original Source: addisstandard.com
