Ethiopia and Somalia held talks to ease tensions after a deadly border clash. The clash involved Ethiopian forces protecting local politicians from Somali attacks in Doolow. Despite mutual accusations, both nations aim to sustain their recent diplomatic rapprochement following high-level meetings in Ankara to discuss cooperation and resolve sovereignty disputes.
Ethiopian and Somali officials convened on Tuesday to address the aftermath of a deadly clash that occurred on Monday in the border state of Jubaland. Somalia’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ali Mohamed Omar, met with Ethiopian Foreign Minister Mesganu Arega following military conflict involving their respective troops. Reports indicate that Ethiopian forces were acting to protect local politicians from an attack by Somali forces in the town of Doolow, an area recently marred by violence between Jubaland and the federal government.
Somalia’s Minister articulated the government’s “protest and condemnation of the conduct of Ethiopian forces in Doolow.” In response, the Ethiopian Foreign Ministry released a statement refuting wrongdoing and attributing the incident to “third parties… intent on destabilising the Horn of Africa,” although they did not provide specifics. The Jubaland administration claimed that federal troops attempted to down a plane carrying politicians, which led to the Ethiopian forces intervening to prevent the attack.
Despite the tensions, both nations expressed commitment to maintaining the recent diplomatic thaw facilitated by Turkey. The relationship between Ethiopia and Somalia had deteriorated following Ethiopia’s controversial agreement with Somaliland, a breakaway region of Somalia, to manage a port and military base in exchange for recognition of independence.
However, a meeting between Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on December 12 in Ankara appeared to resolve some issues. The outcome of this meeting was the signing of a declaration aimed at ensuring Ethiopia gains alternative access to the sea via Somalia. On Tuesday, Ethiopia reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening relations with Somalia in line with the Ankara Declaration.
The diplomatic relations between Ethiopia and Somalia have been strained, particularly after Ethiopia’s unsanctioned agreement with Somaliland, which has led to conflicts over sovereignty issues. The recent clashes in the border region highlight the fragile nature of their detente amidst political fragility in Jubaland. The ongoing engagement between the two parties signifies their efforts to rebuild relations and negotiate peace through high-level discussions, following external facilitation from Turkey.
In conclusion, the recent talks between Ethiopian and Somali officials underscore both nations’ desire to resolve tensions following a border clash. The commitment to upholding the Ankara Declaration indicates a mutual interest in fostering diplomatic relations and addressing sovereignty concerns. The complexities of their relationship reveal the challenges of maintaining stability in the Horn of Africa amid both internal and external pressures.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
