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Horn of Africa Forum Convenes in Djibouti Amidst Somalia-Ethiopia Tensions

The Horn of Africa forum in Djibouti united Somali leaders and experts to discuss regional stability amidst tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia over a port deal with Somaliland. The event highlighted the need for constructive dialogue and the importance of rule of law in the region.

A forum aimed at enhancing regional stability in the Horn of Africa convened in Djibouti, gathering Somali scholars, politicians, and traditional leaders from across the region. This three-day event, organized by the Heritage Institute for Policy Studies in Somalia, drew nearly 300 delegates, including regional experts, to discuss pertinent issues. Mursal Saney, the executive director of the institute, emphasized the importance of dialogue in addressing concerns that impact stability and the rule of law within the Horn of Africa.

The current forum occurs amid escalating tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia regarding a controversial port deal signed by Ethiopia with Somaliland, which Mogadishu considers its integral part. The memorandum of understanding grants Ethiopia a 50-year lease for a port, leading to fears of potential conflict, as Somalia perceives this agreement as a threat to its sovereignty. Ethiopia, however, insists that the deal does not undermine Somalia’s territorial rights.

The historical backdrop includes Somaliland’s declaration of independence in 1991, following the collapse of the Siad Barre regime, an action that has yet to receive international acknowledgment. Previous negotiations mediated by Turkey between Ethiopia and Somalia have not yielded a resolution, further heightening concerns over the potential for renewed hostilities in an already unstable region.

Somali Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi highlighted Somalia’s urgent need for peace, stating, “Because of its strategic location in the region and the fact that it is coming out of a conflict era, Somalia is thirsty for peace and regional stability, respecting the international law and the rule of law.” In addition, Djibouti’s Minister of Justice and Religion, Mumin Hassan Barre, remarked on the responsibility of experts attending the forum to engage meaningfully in regional solutions, asserting that peace lies in the hands of the region’s populace, including its knowledgeable individuals.

The forum welcomed representatives from Somalia, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Djibouti, along with contributions from the Somali diaspora in the United States, Europe, and beyond, to collectively address the complexities facing the Horn of Africa.

The Horn of Africa has been a region characterized by various political tensions and historical strife, particularly regarding the relationship between Somalia and Somaliland. The ongoing discord is exacerbated by Ethiopia’s engagement with Somaliland, which has implications for Somalia’s territorial claims. This forum serves as a significant platform for dialogue and collaboration among regional stakeholders to foster peace and stability amidst these tensions and to reinforce the importance of lawful governance throughout the Horn of Africa.

The Djibouti forum serves as a critical gathering for dialogue amid rising tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia, primarily over a port deal involving Somaliland. Discussions led by regional experts underscore the urgent need for stability and adherence to international law. Addressing these complex geopolitical dynamics is essential for achieving peace and resolving ongoing conflicts within the Horn of Africa.

Original Source: www.voanews.com

Raj Patel

Raj Patel is a prominent journalist with more than 15 years of experience in the field. After graduating with honors from the University of California, Berkeley, he began his career as a news anchor before transitioning to reporting. His work has been featured in several prominent outlets, where he has reported on various topics ranging from global politics to local community issues. Raj's expertise in delivering informative and engaging news pieces has established him as a trusted voice in contemporary journalism.

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