Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed reached a significant agreement in Ankara regarding the sea port crisis. The Ankara Declaration recognized Somalia’s territorial integrity while allowing Ethiopia commercial access to the Somali coastline. This breakthrough followed intense negotiations and reflects Turkey’s strategic mediation role in East Africa. The deal aims to foster cooperation and stability in the region amidst ongoing geopolitical challenges.
In recent discussions held in Ankara, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed sought to resolve the ongoing sea port dispute between their nations, mediated by Turkey. Despite initial setbacks in prior negotiations, they reached a pivotal agreement during a nearly seven-hour dialogue. Somalia’s demand for Ethiopia to revoke a memorandum of understanding with Somaliland, which could imply recognition of Somaliland’s sovereignty, was a primary point of contention. Ultimately, the Ankara Declaration recognized Somalia’s territorial unity while allowing Ethiopia to secure commercial access to Somali ports, thereby addressing both nations’ core interests.
The negotiations were marked by significant diplomatic pressure, as Turkey has a vested interest in supporting both countries through military and humanitarian assistance. President Erdogan emphasized the urgency of reaching a consensus, reflecting Turkey’s broader ambitions in the region. The agreement includes provisions for further technical engagements to solidify the relationship, with deadlines set for future negotiations, thus establishing a framework for ongoing cooperation.
Analysts view the agreement as mutually beneficial, as it grants Ethiopia essential access to the sea while simultaneously reinforcing Somalia’s territorial claims. This context has heightened following Somaliland’s recent political changes, which could influence its relationship with Ethiopia and its aspirations for international recognition. Overall, this development represents a breakthrough in regional diplomacy, aiming to enhance maritime and economic collaboration between Somalia and Ethiopia, with Turkey acting as a catalyst for peace and cooperation.
The ongoing crisis between Somalia and Ethiopia centers around Ethiopia’s access to coastal ports, made more complicated by the existence of Somaliland, a self-declared independence region. The situation escalated with a 50-year memorandum of understanding signed between Ethiopia and Somaliland, perceived by Somalia as an affront to its territorial integrity. International law principles around statehood, defined territory, and the implications of such agreements have underpinned the negotiations between the parties. The Turkish government, having invested significantly in Somalia since 2011, offered its mediation to resolve the tensions, underscoring Turkey’s emerging role as a regional powerbroker.
In conclusion, the Ankara Declaration serves as a landmark agreement between Somalia and Ethiopia, balancing both countries’ interests while acknowledging Somalia’s territorial integrity. The engagement also signifies Turkey’s growing influence in East Africa and highlights the region’s complex geopolitical landscape. Moving forward, continued dialogue and cooperation are essential for ensuring stability and prosperity in the area, particularly in light of ongoing threats from regional instability and militant groups.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
