The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia has praised the agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia to resolve their port dispute in Somaliland. Signed in Ankara, the deal is seen as critical for regional peace. Leaders of both nations reaffirmed their commitment to each other’s sovereignty and agreed on measures for Ethiopia’s maritime access, aiming to improve relations after previous tensions.
The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) has commended the recent agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia aimed at resolving their dispute concerning Ethiopia’s intention to construct a port in Somaliland. This resolution, signed in Ankara, Turkey, is seen as a significant step toward enhancing regional peace and stability. Mohamed El-Amine Souef, the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission for Somalia, emphasized the necessity of implementing the agreement to foster trust and cooperation between the nations involved. Furthermore, he reassured ATMIS’s commitment to support Somalia in its state-building and security initiatives, reflecting the aspirations of its populace and aligning with the broader goal of a stable, prosperous Africa. Both leaders, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, recognized each other’s sovereignty while agreeing on necessary arrangements for Ethiopia to gain maritime access.
Previously, relations between Ethiopia and Somalia had soured in light of a controversial agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland, which allowed Ethiopian access to the Red Sea in exchange for recognizing Somaliland’s independence – an action vehemently opposed by Somalia. However, the newly forged agreement aims to mend these tensions, reflecting the constructive engagement facilitated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan during the signing ceremony in Ankara. The African Union and ATMIS have expressed optimism for enhanced cooperation and mutual respect moving forward, characteristic of a collaborative approach to resolving regional issues.
The agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia marks a crucial turning point in their bilateral relations, especially concerning the contentious issue surrounding Somaliland. Internationally recognized as part of Somalia, Somaliland declared independence in 1991, leading to ongoing disputes over its status. The recent tensions escalated when Ethiopia and Somaliland signed an agreement earlier in the year that allowed Ethiopia access to the Red Sea in return for acknowledging Somaliland’s independence, a move that was condemned by the Somali government. The new agreement emphasizes mutual respect for sovereignty and suggests a collaborative path toward resolving underlying conflicts.
In summary, the recent agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia, facilitated by Turkey, represents a significant advancement in relations between the two countries. It is crucial for establishing peace and stability in the region, particularly in addressing the past grievances linked to Somaliland. The leadership shown by both President Mohamud and Prime Minister Ahmed reflects a commitment to cooperation and respect for territorial integrity, promising fruitful outcomes for regional dynamics moving forward.
Original Source: www.socialnews.xyz
