Ethiopian President Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud have announced a landmark agreement to resolve a yearlong dispute over Ethiopia’s access to the Arabian Sea. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan mediated the talks, emphasizing Turkey’s emerging role in the Horn of Africa. The agreement aims to alleviate tensions and promote regional stability amidst historical conflicts regarding Ethiopia’s landlocked status and port access.
In a significant development, Ethiopian President Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud have reached a vital agreement aimed at resolving a prolonged dispute regarding Ethiopia’s access to the Arabian Sea. This accord was announced during a press conference in Ankara, following intense discussions mediated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, whose involvement highlights Turkey’s growing influence in the Horn of Africa. The agreement is anticipated to foster improved relations between Ethiopia and Somalia, mitigating tensions that have historically threatened regional stability.
The underlying conflict primarily stems from Ethiopia’s status as the most populous landlocked nation since Eritrea’s secession in 1993. Lacking a major seaport has severely inhibited Ethiopia’s economic growth. Earlier this year, Ethiopia’s establishment of a leasing agreement for a port in Somaliland sparked further tensions, resulting in Somalia’s ultimatum to expel Ethiopian military personnel stationed to combat al-Shabab terrorist elements. Observers expressed concerns that this strife could escalate into a conflict reminiscent of the catastrophic Ogaden War of 1977-78.
Turkey’s involvement is not incidental; it draws from Ankara’s established relationships with both nations and its longstanding interest in maintaining peace within the region. Turkey maintains its largest overseas military base in Somalia, where it has trained several Somali forces. Additionally, Turkey supported the Ethiopian government during the Tigray conflict through the provision of advanced military technology. “The agreement will help make Turkey into an even more relevant power in the region, with Ankara pitching itself as a security partner for African countries,” asserts Eurasia Group expert Emre Peker. Turkey’s investment of over $2 billion in Ethiopia, trailing only behind China, further underscores its commitment to fostering bilateral relations in Africa.
Looking forward, a follow-up meeting is scheduled for February, designated for technical discussions aimed at finalizing the specifics of port access. Such steps are crucial for paving the way towards enhanced economic collaboration between Ethiopia and Somalia, as well as for Turkey’s role as a significant player within Africa’s regional dynamics.
The conflict between Ethiopia and Somalia is deeply rooted in historical tensions exacerbated by geopolitical factors. Since Eritrea’s independence in 1993, Ethiopia has grappled with its landlocked status, hindering its economic development and trade capabilities. The recent port agreement with Somaliland, although intended to benefit Ethiopia, elicited a strong response from Somalia, indicating a complex regional relationship fraught with insecurity and competing interests. Turkey’s strategic military and economic investments in both nations further complicate the scenario, as Ankara seeks to elevate its influence in a critical region.
In conclusion, the agreement reached between Ethiopia and Somalia, facilitated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, represents a pivotal moment in resolving a longstanding conflict over port access. This development not only aims to enhance trade and economic cooperation between the two countries but also underscores Turkey’s growing role as a mediator in the Horn of Africa. Continuous dialogue and technical discussions in the coming months will be essential for solidifying this agreement and fostering regional stability.
Original Source: www.gzeromedia.com
