Ethiopia and Somalia have come to an agreement, brokered by Turkey, to resolve their differences over a military base deal in Somaliland, which has sparked significant tension. Following prior arrangements granting Ethiopia rights for a military base, Somalia raised concerns regarding territorial integrity. The two nations are set to engage in negotiations by February 2025, underscoring a commitment to peaceful collaboration amidst ongoing instability.
Ethiopia and Somalia have reached a preliminary agreement to address their long-standing differences, particularly concerning a controversial military base deal in Somaliland. Turkey facilitated the accord between Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. Under previous arrangements, Ethiopia was to establish a military base on Somaliland’s coast, while Somaliland would receive an equity stake in Ethiopian Airlines. Somalia objected to this deal, citing threats to its territorial integrity, given Somaliland’s declaration of independence in 1991 without international recognition.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced the agreement, emphasizing a commitment to peace and cooperation. Efforts for mediation began in August, coinciding with Turkey’s broader ambitions to enhance its influence in Africa and secure energy resources through offshore explorations. The recent political developments in Somaliland, including the election of Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, have introduced uncertainties about the prior deal. Nevertheless, both nations have pledged to set aside their differences and engage in technical discussions, aiming to resolve their disputes by February 2025.
Experts regard the unfolding dialogue as a positive development, though the core issues remain unchanged. Analyst Matt Bryden noted the critical importance of the leaders’ meeting, hinting that this peace-building effort could also facilitate the continued presence of Ethiopian troops as part of an African Union peacekeeping mission in Somalia. The mission, which includes participation from several countries, faces changes with the upcoming departure of Ethiopian forces by the year’s end, as Somalia has requested their exclusion from the new contingent set to commence operations.
The political landscape between Ethiopia and Somalia has been fraught with historical tensions, particularly stemming from the Somali region of Somaliland’s quest for independence. Although Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991, it has not gained widespread international recognition. The military base proposal from Ethiopia has further complicated the relationship, with Somalia asserting that it infringes upon its territorial sovereignty. Turkey, aiming to expand its influence in the Horn of Africa, has sought to mediate between the two nations, aligning its interests with the stability of the region and its energy ambitions. This agreement comes after a series of diplomatic engagements and elections that have affected internal and external perceptions of Somaliland’s political alignment. With the new political leadership in Somaliland, uncertainties surfaced regarding prior commitments made to Ethiopia, prompting renewed negotiations facilitated by Turkey.
The agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia represents a significant step towards reconciling their differences, particularly regarding the contentious military base deal in Somaliland. By committing to joint technical negotiations, both countries aim to foster peace and stability in the region. Turkish mediation highlights its intent to play a pivotal role in African geopolitics, while the prospects of peacekeeping missions involving Ethiopian troops indicate ongoing security concerns within Somalia. Overall, this development could pave the way for more constructive relations in the future, contingent upon mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Original Source: financialpost.com
