Ethiopia and Somalia have commenced technical talks in Turkey to resolve a territorial dispute related to Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland. This initiative follows concerns over sovereignty and aims to establish a framework for cooperation while respecting Somalia’s territorial integrity. The discussions, mediated by Turkey, represent a hopeful step toward reducing tensions in the Horn of Africa.
On Tuesday, Ethiopian and Somali diplomats convened in Ankara, Turkey for the first round of technical negotiations aimed at resolving a dispute stemming from Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland, a self-declared independent region of Somalia. The Turkish Foreign Ministry announced that these talks represent efforts to mediate tensions that have persisted since last year’s memorandum that allowed Ethiopia to lease land from Somaliland for a marine force base in exchange for recognition of Somaliland’s independence.
Concerns over territorial sovereignty have heightened, with Somalia asserting that this deal encroaches on its national territory. In December, the leaders of Somalia and Ethiopia agreed to initiate talks to maintain Somalia’s territorial integrity while permitting Ethiopia access to the sea. Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos and Somalia’s Ali Mohamed Omar led these initial discussions in Ankara, reaffirming their commitment to the principles established in the Ankara Declaration.
“Both delegations demonstrated their commitment to the letter and spirit of the Ankara Declaration,” stated the Turkish Foreign Ministry regarding the December agreement. The ministry also confirmed that substantial progress has been made towards actualizing these commitments. A subsequent round of technical discussions is slated for March.
Turkey plays a pivotal role in the region, holding significant investments in Somalia, including its largest overseas military base. Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia over three decades ago, remains unrecognized by the African Union or United Nations, while Somalia maintains that Somaliland is part of its territory. With over 120 million inhabitants, Ethiopia stands as the world’s most populous landlocked nation.
The inaugural technical talks between Ethiopia and Somalia in Turkey mark a significant step toward addressing longstanding disputes related to territorial sovereignty and independence claims. With ongoing mediation by Turkey, both countries are striving to reach an agreement that respects Somalia’s sovereignty while enabling Ethiopia to attain maritime access. The continuation of these discussions, scheduled for March, underscores the importance of dialogue in resolving regional tensions.
Original Source: apnews.com
