Somalia and Ethiopia Restore Diplomatic Relations Following Türkiye’s Mediation
Somalia and Ethiopia have restored diplomatic ties following President Mohamud’s visit to Addis Ababa. The Türkiye-mediated agreement ends a year-long rift and promotes mutual cooperation in trade and security, particularly against extremism. Technical negotiations are scheduled to begin by February 2025, reflecting a commitment to a stable regional relationship despite underlying tensions regarding maritime access.
Somalia and Ethiopia have restored full diplomatic relations following a significant reconciliation visit by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to Addis Ababa. This reconciliation ends a year-long period of tension exacerbated by Ethiopia’s previous agreements with Somaliland for sea access. Türkiye’s mediation was instrumental, facilitating three rounds of negotiations that culminated in the Ethiopia-Somalia Ankara Declaration. Both nations aim to enhance cooperation in trade and security, particularly against group extremisms, signaling a new era in their bilateral relations.
The joint commitment by President Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, emphasizing a future of friendship and solidarity, paves the way for improved collaboration. Technical negotiations are scheduled to begin by February 2025, with potential outcomes anticipated within four months. This development has garnered recognition from international bodies such as the African Union, the United States, and the European Union, accentuating its regional significance.
Despite the positive strides, underlying complexities continue to affect the relationship, particularly concerning maritime access linked to Ethiopia’s prior agreements with Somaliland. The evolving dynamics extend beyond Somalia and Ethiopia, with regional players like Egypt and Eritrea forming alliances aimed at maintaining stability and opposing Ethiopia’s military posturing in the Red Sea, which remains a matter of contention.
The restoration of diplomatic ties between Somalia and Ethiopia follows a tumultuous period characterized by strained relations, which was principally triggered in April 2024 when Somalia severed ties after Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland. Somaliland, a self-declared independent region, struck a deal with Ethiopia that raised concerns in Somalia regarding territorial sovereignty and access to the sea. Türkiye’s successful facilitation of talks between the two nations highlights the growing role of international mediation in resolving regional disputes, especially in the volatile Horn of Africa. The renewed relations are expected to enhance trade and cooperation in security against common threats.
In conclusion, the restoration of diplomatic relations between Somalia and Ethiopia represents a significant step towards regional stability in the Horn of Africa. With Türkiye acting as a mediator, both countries have openly committed to building a future characterized by cooperation and mutual respect. However, challenges remain, particularly regarding maritime access and ongoing regional alliances that could influence the geopolitical landscape. As negotiations begin, the anticipated developments could redefine the dynamics of security and trade between the two nations and their neighbors.
Original Source: ilkha.com
