Ethiopia and Somalia’s top diplomats held technical talks in Turkey to address a dispute linked to Ethiopia’s lease agreement with Somaliland for a marine base. Turkey is mediating amidst rising tensions in the region.
On Tuesday, top diplomats from Ethiopia and Somalia convened for the first round of technical discussions in Ankara, Turkey, aimed at resolving a dispute stemming from a memorandum signed between Ethiopia and Somaliland, a self-declared breakaway region of Somalia. This arrangement has increased tensions between the Horn of Africa nations due to the strategic leasing of coastal land for establishing a marine force base. With concerns of potential conflict in the region, Turkey has stepped in to mediate the discussions, emphasizing the significance of stability in this volatile area.
The inaugural technical talks between Ethiopia and Somalia in Turkey represent a crucial step towards alleviating tensions rooted in a contentious agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland. As Turkey plays a mediatory role, it seeks to foster dialogue and prevent escalating conflicts, thereby promoting peace and stability within the Horn of Africa.
Original Source: www.thespec.com
