The African Union urged Ethiopia and Somalia to promptly implement an agreement to end tensions over maritime access for Ethiopia. A deal emerged following Turkish-brokered talks aimed at fostering cooperation and stability in the region, although Somalia expressed concerns about sovereignty. The agreement highlights Ethiopia’s need for a sea route and sets the stage for technical discussions in early 2024.
The African Union (AU) has called on Somalia and Ethiopia to promptly implement an agreement designed to alleviate tensions regarding Ethiopia’s access to the sea. This appeal comes on the heels of a contentious deal between Ethiopia and Somalia’s autonomous region, Somaliland, which has been met with a strong backlash from Mogadishu. Following diplomatic discussions in Turkey, a historic agreement was reached, with leaders emphasizing the necessity of cooperation to ensure peace and stability in the region. The AU praised this development but underscored the urgent need for immediate action on the agreed measures.
Ethiopia, a landlocked nation since Eritrea’s independence in 1993, has been seeking a pathway to the sea to facilitate trade and bolster its economy. The recent agreement with Somaliland has stirred up significant controversy, as it was perceived by Somalia as a breach of its territorial integrity. The involvement of Turkey in brokering the agreement highlights the geopolitical complexities of the Horn of Africa region, where historical rivalries and aspirations for sovereignty come into play. This agreement could have broad implications not only for bilateral relations between Ethiopia and Somalia but also for regional stability.
In conclusion, the AU’s call for swift implementation of the recent agreement underscores the significant diplomatic efforts made to resolve underlying conflicts between Ethiopia and Somalia. Both countries recognize the importance of cooperation in achieving mutual benefits and ensuring regional stability. The early 2024 technical discussions will be crucial in cementing this agreement and addressing outstanding disputes, particularly concerning Somaliland’s status. The international community remains attentive to the developments as this situation unfolds.
Original Source: www.jacarandafm.com
