UN Endorses Türkiye’s Role in Somalia-Ethiopia Peace Agreement

The United Nations has welcomed a peace agreement between Somalia and Ethiopia facilitated by Türkiye, termed the Ankara Declaration. UN’s spokesman highlighted the significance of this initiative in promoting friendship between the nations. President Erdoğan emphasized the need for cooperation in the region as tensions have arisen due to previous agreements between Ethiopia and Somaliland.

The United Nations has expressed its approval of the recent agreement between Somalia and Ethiopia, facilitated by Türkiye, which was announced on Wednesday. UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric highlighted the Ankara Declaration as a significant development, emphasizing its contribution to fostering friendship and mutual respect between the two nations. The UN anticipates the initiation of technical negotiations and is hopeful for a successful resolution resulting from this diplomatic effort. Dujarric also conveyed the UN’s willingness to assist in any capacity and underscored the necessity of political will to resolve deep-seated differences through dialogue.

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan hosted a meeting with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in Ankara, where the leaders unveiled the Ankara Declaration. Erdoğan characterized this agreement as a foundational step towards establishing peace and cooperation between the nations. The initiative comes in response to heightened tensions since Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland regarding the use of the Berbera port, which triggered discord with Somalia.

This recent development is set against a backdrop of historical tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia, largely stemming from Ethiopia’s dealings with Somaliland, a self-declared independent region in Somalia. The use of the Red Sea port of Berbera by Ethiopia has been a particular point of contention that has necessitated external mediation. Türkiye has taken a proactive role in facilitating dialogue between the two countries, thereby positioning itself as a key player in regional diplomacy.

In conclusion, the UN commends the collaborative efforts of Türkiye in mediating the agreement between Somalia and Ethiopia, reflecting a commitment to sustaining peace and fostering constructive dialogue. The Ankara Declaration is seen as a pivotal step towards reconciliation and cooperation, with the potential for future progress contingent upon the will of both nations to engage meaningfully in the negotiation process. The UN remains ready to support these efforts.

Original Source: www.dailysabah.com