Ethiopia and Somalia held the first round of technical talks in Ankara, Turkey, aimed at resolving a dispute linked to Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland. The talks, mediated by Turkey, seek to balance Somalia’s territorial integrity with Ethiopia’s need for maritime access. Leaders from both nations have committed to ongoing negotiations, with further discussions scheduled for March.
In Ankara, Turkey, diplomats from Ethiopia and Somalia commenced the first round of technical discussions aimed at resolving a dispute stemming from a controversial agreement between Ethiopia and the self-declared Republic of Somaliland. The Turkish Foreign Ministry confirmed the talks, highlighting Turkey’s role as a mediator amidst potential conflict in a historically unstable region. Tensions intensified following Ethiopia’s memorandum of understanding with Somaliland, which involves leasing coastal land for a marine base in exchange for Ethiopia’s recognition of Somaliland’s independence.
Somalia, however, deems this arrangement a violation of its territorial sovereignty, leading to concerns about regional stability. Last December, the leaders of both nations convened in Turkey and agreed to pursue technical negotiations that would maintain Somalia’s territorial integrity while permitting Ethiopia access to the sea. The Turkish Foreign Ministry stated that both delegations expressed their commitment to the Ankara Declaration.
These negotiations were led by Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos and Somalia’s state minister for foreign affairs, Ali Mohamed Omar, and marked a significant step forward in resolving their ongoing disputes. The Turkish Foreign Ministry further announced that the delegations have begun the substantive work necessary to actualize their shared vision, with another round of talks scheduled for March.
Turkey has invested substantially in Somalia, which includes establishing its largest military base overseas. Somaliland, having proclaimed its independence from Somalia over three decades ago, lacks recognition from both the African Union and the United Nations, with Somalia asserting that Somaliland is an integral part of its territory. With a population exceeding 120 million, Ethiopia is recognized as the world’s most populous landlocked nation.
In conclusion, the initial technical discussions between Ethiopia and Somalia in Turkey represent a critical effort to address longstanding disputes over territorial sovereignty and maritime access. With Turkey’s mediating role, both nations aim to find a resolution that respects Somalia’s territorial claims while enabling Ethiopia to benefit economically from the agreement with Somaliland. The commitment demonstrated by both delegations during this round of talks is a promising step towards regional stability.
Original Source: apnews.com
