Somalia and Ethiopia have agreed to restore diplomatic relations after a year-long rift caused by Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland. This decision follows a visit by Somalia’s President to Ethiopia and aims to enhance bilateral cooperation amid regional challenges.
In a significant diplomatic development, Somalia and Ethiopia have resolved to re-establish their diplomatic relations over a year after Somalia severed ties due to a contentious maritime accord between Ethiopia and the self-declared republic of Somaliland. Following a landmark visit by Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to Addis Ababa, the two nations have pledged to restore their diplomatic representation and enhance their bilateral relations. Ethiopia’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mesganu Arga Moach, characterized this decision as a significant advancement in fostering cooperation between the two East African neighbors.
The diplomatic row ensued after Ethiopia secured a port access agreement with Somaliland, which Somalia perceived as a potential annexation of its territory. The memorandum involved Ethiopia recognizing Somaliland’s independence in exchange for port access and the establishment of a naval facility along the Gulf of Aden. This agreement, posited by Somali officials as a breach of Somalia’s sovereignty, led to Somalia threatening military action against Ethiopia while also indicating it would reevaluate the presence of Ethiopian troops within UN peacekeeping mandates.
Despite the tensions, Somalia has expressed conditional support for Ethiopia’s interest in port access, provided engagements with Somaliland are conducted transparently and with Somalia’s consent. The re-establishment of diplomatic relations marks a pivotal turn, primarily following mediation by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan that emphasized resolving their bilateral disputes through dialogue.
Moreover, these discussions took place amid Somalia’s broader regional maneuvers, including cooperation with Egypt and Eritrea, both of whom have longstanding disputes with Ethiopia. Egypt, recently increasing its military support to Somalia, views the developments carefully, particularly regarding the implications of foreign military presence in critical maritime zones.
The relationship between Somalia and Ethiopia has been historically complex, punctuated by territorial disputes and socio-political dynamics stemming from both nations’ interests in the Horn of Africa. The recent severance of diplomatic ties in 2022 ensued after Ethiopia’s controversial agreement with Somaliland, which unilaterally declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but lacks international recognition. The rift not only threatened bilateral relations but also security collaboration essential in combating extremist elements, notably al-Shabaab, thus escalating regional tensions. In recent months, Turkish mediation has emerged as a significant factor in moving towards reconciliation, aligning with shifting alliances in the Horn of Africa.
In conclusion, the recent agreement to restore diplomatic ties between Somalia and Ethiopia represents a critical step towards stabilizing relations that have been fraught with conflict over territorial integrity and maritime rights. The potential for renewed cooperation could fortify regional security efforts against terrorism while allowing both nations to navigate their shared interests constructively. Mediated dialogues, particularly with Turkish involvement, signify a pragmatic approach to resolving entrenched disputes, ultimately benefiting the broader stability of East Africa.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
