Ethiopian media lauds the Ankara Declaration, facilitated by Türkiye, as a significant milestone in improving cooperation and security between Ethiopia and Somalia. The agreement addresses tensions stemming from Ethiopia’s engagement with Somalia’s Somaliland region. Leaders from both nations reaffirm their commitment to mutual sovereignty, aiming to enhance stability and foster long-term development in the Horn of Africa.
Ethiopian media outlets have responded positively to the Ankara Declaration, an agreement facilitated by Türkiye that aims to enhance cooperation and security between Ethiopia and Somalia. This historic accord, which garnered extensive coverage across various media channels, signifies a pivotal moment in the relations between the two neighboring nations. The declaration, lauded by state-owned and private media alike, is viewed as a pathway to improved regional stability in the Horn of Africa, resolving nearly a year of tensions following Ethiopia’s engagement with Somalia’s separatist region, Somaliland.
The Ankara Declaration was the result of a significant meeting held in Turkey, where Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan welcomed Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. The leaders announced the agreement aimed at fostering peace and cooperation, reaffirming mutual respect for each nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Media analysts have emphasized the potential benefits of this cooperation to promote long-term stability and economic development in the region. The declaration is seen as a commitment to leave behind past grievances and work towards shared prosperity, enhancing diplomatic ties that have been strained in recent years.
The historical context includes Eritrea’s independence from Ethiopia in 1991, which led to significant geopolitical shifts in the region, including Ethiopia losing access to the Red Sea. With the recent deal regarding the port of Berbera in Somaliland, tensions flared between Ethiopia and Somalia. The Ankara Declaration articulates a commitment from both nations to foster a collaborative spirit that embraces mutual interests, according to a joint statement issued after their discussions.
The Ankara Declaration arises from a complex historical backdrop where Ethiopia and Somalia have navigated tensions and territorial disputes over the years, particularly post-1991, following Eritrea’s independence. The separation of Eritrea resulted in Ethiopia’s diminished access to maritime resources, challenging its economic interests. Additionally, the recent deal involving Somaliland has heightened the stakes between Ethiopia and Somalia. Türkiye’s role as a mediator is crucial in facilitating dialogue that can lead to stability in a strategically significant region such as the Horn of Africa. The declaration signifies renewed efforts towards cooperation and security amid ongoing geopolitical complexities.
In conclusion, the positive reception of the Ankara Declaration by Ethiopian media underscores a hopeful outlook for Ethiopian-Somali relations. Through this agreement, both nations have pledged to respect each other’s sovereignty and spearhead a cooperative relationship. The potential for enhanced security and stability in the Horn of Africa is evident as both countries focus on mutual interests, setting aside previous conflicts in pursuit of shared prosperity and development.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
