The IGAD commends the Türkiye-mediated pact between Somalia and Ethiopia aimed at resolving a year-long tension. The Ankara Declaration signifies a commitment to peace and mutual sovereignty, facilitated by Turkish diplomatic efforts under President Erdogan. The agreement emphasizes technical negotiations and aims to strengthen social ties between the two nations in the Horn of Africa.
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), a regional organization in East Africa, recently praised a significant agreement between Somalia and Ethiopia that aims to end nearly a year of tensions, a process facilitated by Türkiye. Workneh Gebeyehu, the executive secretary of IGAD, expressed gratitude to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for his pivotal role in guiding discussions that culminated in the Ankara Declaration. This agreement is seen as a crucial move toward reinforcing the historic connections between Somalia and Ethiopia and signals a shared commitment to resolving disputes peacefully.
The relationship between these two nations has been strained since Ethiopia entered an agreement with Somaliland, a breakaway region of Somalia, regarding access to the Berbera port earlier this year. In response, Türkiye has taken on a mediatory role, striving to alleviate discord between the parties. Following talks held in Ankara, President Erdogan, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud announced the agreement, underscoring the collaboration facilitated by Türkiye. The joint declaration reaffirmed both countries’ commitment to mutual sovereignty and pledged continued negotiations under Turkish facilitation, aimed for completion by June 2025.
Additionally, historical context is important to understand the relations between Somalia and Ethiopia. Eritrea’s independence in 1991 resulted in Ethiopia losing access to the Red Sea and vital ports, which has intensified the strategic significance of agreements concerning maritime access and territorial sovereignty for the two nations. Such diplomatic efforts are critical for addressing regional challenges and promoting long-term stability and prosperity in the Horn of Africa.
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) plays an essential role in fostering cooperation and stability among East African nations. The longstanding tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia have roots in territorial and sovereignty disputes, particularly concerning port access, following the independence of Eritrea. The recently mediated talks in Türkiye and the resulting Ankara Declaration signify an important step toward mending relations in a region often challenged by strife and instability. Türkiye’s role as a mediator underscores the necessity of collaborative diplomatic efforts in resolving conflicts within the Horn of Africa, a region marked by complex interdependencies and historical grievances.
In conclusion, the agreement reached between Somalia and Ethiopia, facilitated by Türkiye, marks a pivotal moment in their bilateral relations. It reflects both nations’ commitment to peaceful resolution and stability in the Horn of Africa. With the emphasis on mutual sovereignty and upcoming negotiations, this initiative aims to strengthen the historical ties and address shared challenges, paving the way for a more peaceful coexistence.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
