By G. Mudalige, Jadetimes Staff
G. Mudalige is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Technology & Innovation
Ethiopia and Somalia have reached a groundbreaking agreement to end their long-standing dispute over Ethiopia's maritime plans in Somaliland, following successful mediation by Turkey. The historic accord, announced during a press conference in Ankara, was lauded as a pivotal step towards fostering regional stability in the Horn of Africa. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who hosted the negotiations, hailed the reconciliation as "the first step towards a new beginning."
The agreement resolves tensions that erupted in January when Ethiopia signed a contentious deal with Somaliland to lease a 20-kilometer stretch of coastline for 50 years to establish a naval base. While the agreement reportedly included Ethiopia recognizing Somaliland's independence, Addis Ababa never confirmed this explicitly. Somaliland has long sought international recognition as an independent state since its separation from Somalia over three decades ago, but Somalia views the territory as an integral part of its sovereignty.
The maritime deal sparked fierce opposition from Mogadishu, which deemed Ethiopia's actions an act of aggression. The controversy threatened to escalate into a broader regional conflict, with Egypt backing Somalia due to its own strategic tensions with Ethiopia over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam on the River Nile. Amid rising hostilities, Turkey stepped in to mediate, leveraging its strong economic and security ties with both Ethiopia and Somalia.
During the press conference in Ankara, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud affirmed their commitment to mutual respect and sovereignty. Prime Minister Abiy emphasized Ethiopia's need for secure access to the sea, while President Mohamud underscored Somalia’s willingness to collaborate for the benefit of both nations. The Ankara declaration outlines a framework for further technical talks in February to establish "mutually beneficial commercial arrangements" that will provide Ethiopia with sea access while preserving Somalia's territorial integrity.
Somaliland’s position remains a critical element in the evolving dynamics. Last month, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, Somaliland's newly elected president, pledged to review the maritime deal during his campaign. However, he avoided addressing the agreement directly during his recent inauguration speech, leaving uncertainties about Somaliland’s stance on the matter. The territory’s strategic location, as a gateway to the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea, underscores its importance in regional geopolitics and global trade.
Turkey’s role in brokering the reconciliation reflects its growing influence in the Horn of Africa. President Erdogan commended both leaders for their constructive attitudes, framing the agreement as a milestone in fostering peace and cooperation in the region. Analysts view this accord as a diplomatic win for Turkey and a critical step in stabilizing a region often fraught with conflict.
While the agreement signals a new chapter in Ethiopia-Somalia relations, challenges remain. Key questions about the status of Ethiopia's deal with Somaliland and the operational specifics of the joint declaration will require careful negotiation. Nonetheless, this historic accord sets the stage for stronger bilateral ties and a shared vision for development, offering hope for lasting peace in one of Africa’s most strategically significant regions.
Commentaires