Ethiopia and Somalia have resolved their diplomatic dispute, as stated by Somalia’s Foreign Minister. This tension arose over Ethiopia’s maritime deal with Somaliland, which Somalia claims. Following Turkey’s mediation, Ethiopia and Somalia pledged to enhance relations and collaborate on peacekeeping in Somalia.
The recent diplomatic spat between Ethiopia and Somalia, which has strained regional relations, has been officially resolved, as declared by Somalia’s Foreign Minister, Ahmed Moalim Fiqi. He emphasized that no concessions were made by Somalia during this resolution process. Although Ethiopia has not disputed this assertion, it acknowledged a commitment to enhance bilateral relations with Somalia. This tension escalated last January when Ethiopia entered a maritime agreement with Somaliland, a territory that Somalia claims as its own. Following an Ethiopian delegation’s visit to Somalia, which was a part of a Turkey-mediated peace initiative, both nations expressed intentions to collaborate on the future of the African Union’s peacekeeping mission in Somalia, bringing a sense of easing to the prior hostilities.
The Ethiopia-Somalia conflict primarily stems from territorial disputes and Ethiopia’s dealings with Somaliland, which Somalia regards as part of its sovereign territory. The breakdown in relations has been exacerbated by Ethiopia’s plans to establish a naval base in Somaliland and its agreement to officially recognize Somaliland’s autonomy, a move that Somalia interprets as a direct threat to its sovereignty. Recent diplomatic efforts, notably mediated by Turkey, have opened avenues for dialogue and cooperation, suggesting a shift towards mutual recognition and collaboration between these Horn of Africa nations.
In summary, the diplomatic tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia are being alleviated as both nations reaffirm their commitment to enhance relations and respect each other’s sovereignty. The resolution follows careful negotiations mediated by Turkey and a willingness from both governments to collaborate effectively on regional security issues. This development marks a significant turnaround in the historically fraught relationship between these nations and sets the stage for future cooperation.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
