Ethiopia and Somalia Conduct Technical Talks in Turkey to Address Dispute
Ethiopia and Somalia commenced technical talks in Ankara, Turkey to address a dispute stemming from Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland. These discussions showcase Turkey’s mediating efforts in the region. Somalia opposes Ethiopia’s recognition of Somaliland, viewing it as a threat to its sovereignty. A subsequent round of talks is scheduled for March, aimed at fostering stability in the Horn of Africa.
Ethiopia and Somalia initiated a first round of technical discussions in Ankara, Turkey, aimed at settling a dispute that arose from Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland, a self-declared independent region of Somalia. The Turkish Foreign Ministry announced that these talks took place on Tuesday and involved top diplomats from both nations, reflecting Turkey’s role in mediating a potentially volatile situation in the Horn of Africa.
Tensions escalated after Ethiopia entered into a memorandum with Somaliland to lease coastal land for establishing a marine military base, which included recognizing Somaliland’s independence. Somalia views this deal as an infringement on its sovereignty, leading to heightened regional unease. The December meeting between the leaders of Somalia and Ethiopia saw a commitment to respect Somalia’s territorial integrity while facilitating Ethiopia’s maritime access.
The delegations were led by Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos and Somalia’s state minister for foreign affairs, Ali Mohamed Omar. The Turkish Foreign Ministry expressed optimism, stating, “Both delegations demonstrated their commitment to the letter and spirit of the Ankara Declaration,” referring to their previous agreement to negotiate.
The next round of discussions is scheduled for March, indicating ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve the dispute. Turkey maintains a significant investment presence in Somalia, with its largest overseas military base situated in the country. Despite Somaliland’s assertion of independence over thirty years ago, it remains unrecognized by the African Union and United Nations, with Somalia claiming it as part of its territory.
Ethiopia is the most populous landlocked country worldwide, with an estimated population of over 120 million, highlighting the regional demographic significance of these discussions. The resolution of this dispute is crucial for fostering stability in the Horn of Africa region, which has experienced recurrent tensions.
In conclusion, the first round of technical talks between Ethiopia and Somalia, held in Ankara, represents a critical step toward resolving a dispute arising from Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland. With Turkey’s mediating role evident, both delegations have expressed their commitment to addressing territorial concerns while maintaining regional stability. Future discussions planned for March will further explore pathways to effectively manage the complex dynamics at play.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
