The Ankara Declaration between Ethiopia and Somalia, facilitated by Turkish President Erdoğan, is heralded as a significant step towards peace and stability in the Horn of Africa. Ethiopian MP Fethi Mahdi stated the agreement signifies a diplomatic success for both nations and emphasizes the importance of sovereignty, mutual respect, and regional unity. The deal opens avenues for economic cooperation and is set to initiate technical negotiations by February 2025.
Ethiopian MP Fethi Mahdi emphasized the significant impact of the Ankara Declaration on peace and stability in the Horn of Africa. In an interview with ENA, he described the agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia as a diplomatic success not only for the two nations but also for the African Union, which has been instrumental in promoting regional peace. This declaration represents a crucial step in addressing longstanding diplomatic issues and forging amicable relations between the countries.
Furthermore, this agreement addresses Ethiopia’s historical quest for guaranteed access to the sea, progressing diplomatically in a mutually beneficial framework. The MP remarked that Ethiopia and Somalia are setting a positive example of peaceful coexistence, having demonstrated mutual respect for each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He underscored the agreement’s commitment to resolving disputes through dialogue, highlighting the strong resolve of both nations to reinforce their bilateral relationship.
The Ankara Declaration enhances Ethiopia’s efforts to secure consistent access to the sea through collaborative agreements with Somalia while ensuring the preservation of sovereignty. Additionally, Fethi noted Somalia’s acknowledgment of the sacrifices made by Ethiopian troops during peacekeeping missions as a sign of renewed respect and partnership.
Moreover, the agreement sends a powerful warning to outside entities that aim to exacerbate tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia, reinforcing regional unity in the face of such challenges. In the Deputy Chairman’s view, this agreement signifies a substantial victory not solely for Ethiopia and Somalia but for the Horn of Africa as a whole, exemplifying the efficacy of dialogue, mutual respect, and the pursuit of collaborative prosperity.
The declaration, which was facilitated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, has been recognized as a significant milestone. IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu praised the efforts of both nations’ leaders in engaging constructively and highlighted the importance of diplomatic efforts in addressing shared regional challenges. As Ethiopia and Somalia prepare to initiate technical negotiations by February 2025, with Türkiye’s assistance, they hope to solidify beneficial commercial arrangements that prioritize both nations’ interests and territorial integrity.
The Ankara Declaration is a pivotal agreement concluded between Ethiopia and Somalia, aiming to foster peace and prosperity in the Horn of Africa region. Historically, Ethiopia has faced challenges concerning its access to maritime routes, a situation that has been critical to its national interests. This agreement seeks to address those issues through dialogue and mutual collaboration, positioning it as a transformative step in African diplomacy. The Turkish government, under President Erdoğan, has played a significant role in facilitating this dialogue, encouraging both nations to overcome past grievances and embrace a future of cooperative development.
The Ankara Declaration represents a landmark achievement for Ethiopia and Somalia, enhancing regional peace, stability, and economic cooperation. Both nations have exemplified a commitment to resolving disputes amicably, demonstrating respect for sovereignty and mutual benefits. The agreement not only reinforces bilateral ties but also sends a clear message against external divisive influences. As negotiations progress with Türkiye’s assistance, the potential for shared prosperity in the Horn of Africa looks promising, highlighting the importance of dialogue and partnership.
Original Source: www.ena.et
