Ethiopia and Somalia held talks to address tensions following a deadly clash in Jubaland. The meeting, attended by top foreign ministers, aimed to uphold a fragile peace brokered by Turkey despite accusations from both sides regarding the conduct of their military forces. Recent agreements signal a move towards enhancing cooperation and resolving sovereignty disputes.
On Tuesday, representatives from Somalia and Ethiopia convened for discussions following a violent clash that occurred the day prior along their shared border. Somali State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ali Mohamed Omar, met with his Ethiopian counterpart, Mesganu Arega, after the confrontation in Jubaland, a semi-autonomous region experiencing tensions with the Somali federal government. Reports indicate that Ethiopian forces were guarding local politicians from Somali attacks in Doolow when the incident took place.
Somalia’s minister registered a formal protest against the actions of Ethiopian troops in Doolow, highlighting the deteriorating relations. Meanwhile, Ethiopia’s foreign ministry issued a statement refuting accusations of wrongdoing and suggested involvement from unidentified third parties aiming to destabilize the Horn of Africa, without providing specifics. Furthermore, the Jubaland government accused Somali federal troops of attempting to down a plane carrying its politicians, leading to Ethiopian forces’ intervention at the airstrip.
Both countries appear intent on maintaining a fragile peace facilitated by Turkish mediation. Their strained relations, particularly since Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland in January regarding port access, culminated in a serious diplomatic conflict over Somali sovereignty. A rapprochement emerged following a meeting between Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in Ankara last December, facilitating a declaration to improve ties.
In its statement, Ethiopia expressed its commitment to strengthening relations in accordance with the Ankara Declaration, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with Somalia. Somalia’s foreign ministry echoed sentiments regarding their mutual goal of fully implementing the terms of this declaration, which aims to enhance cooperation between the two nations.
The article covers a recent meeting between Somalia and Ethiopia aimed at mending relations after a clash in the border state of Jubaland. The backdrop includes Ethiopia’s controversial agreement with Somaliland, which has been perceived by Somalia as a violation of its sovereignty. The establishment of diplomatic ties between the two nations, following mediation by Turkey, signifies a critical juncture in their relationship, aiming to advance peace and cooperation despite recent tensions.
In summary, the meeting between Ethiopia and Somalia is a significant attempt to repair frayed relations after a deadly border clash. Both nations are showing a commitment to the Ankara Declaration, seeking to foster cooperation and stability in the region. This ongoing diplomatic engagement reflects their desire to move past conflict and enhance their partnership in the face of external threats to regional stability.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
