The African Union has urged Somalia and Ethiopia to rapidly implement a new agreement aimed at addressing tensions over Ethiopia’s sea access. This follows a controversial deal between Ethiopia and Somaliland concerning a coastal lease, which Somalia views as a violation of its sovereignty. The agreement, brokered by Turkey, represents a significant diplomatic development with promises of cooperation on maritime and commercial matters.
The African Union (AU) has called upon Somalia and Ethiopia to promptly enact an agreement intended to alleviate tensions over Ethiopia’s sea access, deeming it a significant development. Relations have strained since Ethiopia, which lacks coastlines, made a deal with Somaliland—a self-declared independent region of Somalia—to utilize part of its coast for a port and military base. This agreement has raised concerns in Somalia, as it views the arrangement as a breach of its sovereignty, potentially leading to renewed conflict in the already fragile region.
Following protracted discussions facilitated by Turkey, an agreement was achieved between the two nations, heralded as historic by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. He asserted that this deal would facilitate Ethiopia’s long-sought access to maritime routes. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud participated in dialogues that were initially unsuccessful in reaching an accord. President Mohamud expressed a commitment to fostering cooperation based on mutual interests and emphasized the need for regional peace and stability.
AU Commission Chairman Moussa Faki Mahamat commended the leaders for their efforts but underscored the importance of swiftly executing the agreed-upon measures. The specific actions agreed upon were not disclosed in the AU’s communications. The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) also acknowledged the importance of the agreement, recognizing it as a commitment to amicably resolving bilateral tensions. Both nations have pledged to cooperate on commercial dealings and agreements to ensure Ethiopia’s secure access to maritime routes under Somalia’s sovereignty, with technical discussions expected to commence by the end of February.
The tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia have historical roots, primarily influenced by Ethiopia’s landlocked status following Eritrea’s independence and Somalia’s ongoing issues with its breakaway region, Somaliland. The recent agreement highlights Ethiopia’s strategic interest in securing a port for economic and military purposes, which Somalia regards as an infringement on its territorial integrity. This diplomatic engagement, brokered by Turkey, reflects broader regional dynamics and the ongoing quest for stability in the Horn of Africa, an area marked by complex inter-state relationships and ethnic diversities.
The recent agreement between Somalia and Ethiopia signifies a critical step towards resolving longstanding tensions regarding access to the sea. The involvement of the AU and IGAD underscores the need for cooperative relations in East Africa. The swift implementation of the terms discussed is crucial to maintaining peace and stability in the region, thereby fostering a framework for future collaboration such as trade and infrastructure development, vital for both nations’ prosperity.
Original Source: www.hurriyetdailynews.com
