The U.S. has welcomed a new agreement between Somalia and Ethiopia resolving tensions about Ethiopia’s maritime access. The deal, brokered by Turkiye, affirms both countries’ sovereignty, and outlines future negotiations to specify the terms of access, while encouraging cooperation against Al-Shabab.
The United States expressed its support for the recent agreement reached by Somalia and Ethiopia aimed at alleviating regional tensions stemming from Ethiopia’s pursuit of maritime access. The discord was primarily triggered by Ethiopia’s deal with Somaliland, an autonomous region in Somalia, which involved the leasing of coastal territory for a port and military base. However, following mediation by Turkiye, a comprehensive agreement was established, granting Ethiopia “reliable, safe and sustainable access” to the sea while affirming Somalia’s sovereign authority. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken welcomed the December 11 declaration emphasizing both nations’ sovereignty and integrity and looked forward to technical negotiations to define the parameters of Ethiopia’s maritime access, with a commitment to uphold Somalia’s territorial integrity. Blinken also acknowledged Turkiye’s role in brokering the negotiations and encouraged both nations to collaborate more closely on mutual security issues, particularly in combatting Al-Shabab.
The geopolitical landscape of the Horn of Africa has been marked by disputes over territorial sovereignty and access to maritime resources, particularly affecting landlocked nations like Ethiopia. The recent historical context includes Ethiopia’s controversial January agreement with Somaliland, raising concerns in Somalia over violation of its territorial rights. The risk of renewed conflict has prompted intervention by external powers like Turkiye, which seeks to foster stability in a region fraught with tension due to historical grievances and the ongoing threat of militant groups.
In summary, the United States has welcomed the new agreement between Somalia and Ethiopia, which seeks to resolve previous tensions regarding maritime access. Through diplomatic mediation by Turkiye, both parties are set to engage in further negotiations to clarify the terms of this access while respecting the central tenet of Somalia’s sovereignty. This development underscores the importance of regional cooperation in addressing security challenges, and it reflects the ongoing involvement of external stakeholders in Horn of Africa dynamics.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
