Technical teams from Somalia and Ethiopia have begun talks in Ankara, Turkey, to implement the Ankara Declaration, facilitated by President Tayyip Erdogan. Somalia’s Minister for Information emphasized commitment to peace and cooperation after previous tensions regarding territorial integrity. The Ankara Accord, signed by key leaders, focuses on mutual respect for sovereignty and aims to enhance diplomatic relations, with Turkey mediating to support regional stability.
In Ankara, Turkey, technical teams from Somalia’s federal government and Ethiopia have commenced discussions following an agreement established previously. This initiative was facilitated by President Tayyip Erdogan, with Somalia’s Minister for Information, Daudi Aweis, announcing the arrival of the teams and highlighting the talks’ objective to implement the Ankara Declaration. He stressed Somalia’s commitment to peace and cooperative diplomatic relations based on mutual respect.
The recent engagements follow a meeting on February 6, 2025, between Ethiopia’s Foreign Affairs Minister Gedion Timotheos and Turkish Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Burhanettin Duran. Minister Timotheos reaffirmed Ethiopia’s intent to fulfill the commitments of the Ankara Accord, which aims to improve relations between Ethiopia and Somalia and address mutual concerns regarding sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The Ankara Accord indicates a mutual commitment to respect each country’s sovereignty while recognizing Ethiopia’s interest in accessing the sea. The agreement also emphasizes the importance of resolving prior differences. Somalia’s grievances regarding Ethiopia’s earlier dealings with Somaliland, which threatened its territorial integrity, underline the need for such agreements to ensure stability in the region.
Despite earlier tensions, Turkey’s role as a mediator has been crucial in forging dialogue. The country acknowledges the security implications of Ethiopia’s involvement in Somalia and aims to facilitate discussions focusing on commercial interests while fostering peace. Both nations have strategically aligned themselves through defense pacts with regional allies, amid rising concerns over territorial integrity.
In conclusion, the initiation of talks between Somalia and Ethiopia in Ankara marks a significant stride towards improving relations and implementing the Ankara Declaration. The commitment from both nations to resolve historical tensions and respect each other’s sovereignty, supported by Turkey’s mediation, highlights a proactive approach to regional peace and stability. These discussions aim to address mutual interests and enhance diplomatic ties, which are critical for the security dynamics in the Horn of Africa.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
