Ethiopia and Somalia engaged in initial technical talks in Turkey to address a dispute related to Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland. Turkey is mediating to prevent potential conflict in a tense region following Ethiopia’s memorandum to lease coastal land for a marine base, emphasizing the importance of dialogue.
In Ankara, Turkey, on Tuesday, senior diplomats from Ethiopia and Somalia convened for initial technical discussions aimed at addressing a dispute that has arisen following a significant agreement involving Ethiopia and Somaliland, a self-declared independent region of Somalia. This collaborative meeting underscores Turkey’s role in mediating between the two Horn of Africa nations as they navigate tensions stemming from previous agreements. The negotiations come against the backdrop of increasing concerns regarding potential conflict in the already unstable region, particularly after Ethiopia signed a memorandum last year with Somaliland to lease coastal land for a marine force base.
In summary, the first round of technical talks between Ethiopia and Somalia signifies ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve tensions following Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland. The situation necessitates careful mediation to prevent conflict in the Horn of Africa, an area historically marked by instability. Turkey’s involvement highlights the importance of international diplomacy in fostering dialogue between the nations.
Original Source: www.thespec.com
