African Union Endorses Ethiopia-Somalia Agreement on Somaliland Dispute
The African Union welcomed an agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia resolving tensions over Somaliland. The deal, facilitated by Turkey, promotes dialogue and cooperation, emphasizing respect for sovereignty. The leaders of both nations committed to implementing the agreement promptly, signaling a potential resolution to long-standing disputes.
The African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat has publicly endorsed a recent agreement achieved by Ethiopia and Somalia concerning the Somaliland issue, a significant territorial matter within Somalia. The agreement was finalized on December 11 in Ankara, Turkey, following mediation efforts by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. This resolution has been welcomed as a crucial development in diminishing the longstanding tensions between the two nations, which flared after Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland earlier this year to facilitate its access to the Red Sea. Somalia disputed the legitimacy of Ethiopia’s recognition of Somaliland’s independence.
Mahamat commended the diligent negotiation efforts of Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, urging prompt implementation of the agreement. Both leaders have since articulated their commitment to fostering mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, along with a shared commitment to ongoing dialogue aimed at enhancing cooperation between Ethiopia and Somalia.
As Ethiopia and Somalia enter a new phase of diplomatic relations, the AU has reiterated the imperative for both parties to adhere to the terms agreed upon, which aims at fruitful collaboration and stable coexistence. The recent developments signal a proactive approach towards conflict resolution within the Horn of Africa and underline the potential for increased regional cooperation.
The dispute regarding Somaliland centers around its declared independence from Somalia, which is not recognized by the Somali government or the international community. Ethiopia’s prior clandestine agreement with Somaliland to access the Red Sea heightened tensions with Somalia, sparking concerns over territorial integrity. Historical animosities and political differences between Ethiopia and Somalia have long plagued their relations, necessitating international mediation and diplomatic initiatives that could foster stability in the region. The AU has been keenly interested in stabilizing the Horn of Africa, thus its welcome of this agreement signifies broader goals of peace and cooperation.
In summary, the agreement reached between Ethiopia and Somalia represents a significant advancement in diplomatic relations and a potential thawing of tensions over the contentious Somaliland issue. Chairperson Mahamat’s endorsement from the African Union emphasizes the importance of dialogue and collaboration for ensuring regional peace and mutual respect among nations. The commitment from both leaders to uphold the principles of sovereignty and territorial independence lays a positive foundation for future cooperation and stability in the region.
Original Source: english.news.cn
