Ethiopian and Somali intelligence officials met on December 24 in Addis Ababa to strengthen security cooperation following the Ankara Declaration, brokered by Türkiye. The meeting focused on tackling mutual security challenges and reaffirming commitments to sovereignty and unity, addressing tensions heightened by recent geopolitical developments.
On December 24, Ethiopian Intelligence Chief Redwan Hussien convened a significant meeting with Somali Intelligence Chief Abdullahi Mohamed Ali in Addis Ababa. This meeting was organized as a proactive step to enhance security cooperation and implement the commitments established in the Ankara Declaration, a recent agreement facilitated by Türkiye’s mediation. The discussions were centred around shared security challenges and emphasized a united front against external forces that may seek to compromise progress.
Hussien conveyed, “As a follow-up to the Ankara Declaration, we both vowed to move forward and keep detractors from near and afar who are bent on derailment at bay.” Accompanying the intelligence chiefs was a Somali delegation led by Ali Omar, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, further committing to reinforce the obligations as per the Ankara Declaration.
The Ankara Declaration, signed on December 12, has been noted as a pivotal moment in the bilateral relations of the Horn of Africa nations, especially following recent tensions. Ethiopia’s earlier agreement with Somaliland regarding the use of the Red Sea port of Berbera had exacerbated regional discord, highlighting the crucial mediating role of Türkiye in diffusing such strains.
Both nations underscored in a joint statement their commitment to respect each other’s sovereignty, unity, independence, and territorial integrity, marking a renewed commitment to collaborative governance and regional stability.
The meeting between Ethiopian and Somali intelligence officials emerges amid a complex backdrop of diplomatic negotiations facilitated by Türkiye, aimed at fostering harmony between two nations that have experienced considerable tension. The Ankara Declaration, which serves as the signed commitment between Ethiopia and Somalia, underscores a shared intention to address mutual security concerns while respecting each nation’s sovereignty. 此外, the involvement of Türkiye showcases its growing influence as a mediator in regional disputes within the Horn of Africa, an area characterized by intricate political dynamics and historical rivalries.
The meeting between the Ethiopian and Somali intelligence chiefs signifies a constructive approach to enhancing regional security cooperation and addresses shared challenges. Driven by the principles established in the Ankara Declaration, both nations reaffirm their dedication to mutual respect and collaboration while resisting external pressures aimed at undermining their progress. It represents a potential turning point in the relationship between Ethiopia and Somalia, driven by an acknowledgment of each nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Original Source: www.hurriyetdailynews.com
