Ethiopia and Somalia Initiate Diplomatic Talks in Ankara, Turkey

Somalia and Ethiopia have commenced negotiations in Ankara, Turkey, influenced by President Erdogan, to implement the Ankara Declaration. Minister Daudi Aweis highlighted Somalia’s commitment to fostering peace. Ethiopia’s Foreign Affairs Minister reaffirmed commitment to the Accord signed with Somali leaders, which respects both nations’ sovereignty and seeks to resolve previous disputes.

Technical delegations from Somalia’s federal government and Ethiopia have initiated discussions in Ankara, Turkey, as part of a formal agreement between Mogadishu and Addis Ababa. This initiative was facilitated by President Tayyip Erdogan, marking a significant step in post-tension relations between the two nations. Daudi Aweis, Somalia’s Minister of Information, confirmed the arrival of these teams to explore the implementation of the previously established Ankara Declaration. Aweis underscored Somalia’s dedication to nurturing peace and diplomatic relations grounded in mutual respect.

The discussions followed a recent meeting between Ethiopia’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Gedion Timotheos, and Turkey’s Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister, Burhanettin Duran, on February 6, 2025. Minister Timotheos reiterated Ethiopia’s commitment to realizing the Ankara Accord. The Accord, signed by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, and President Erdogan, emphasized the importance of respecting each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The agreement recognized the potential advantages for Ethiopia in gaining assured maritime access while simultaneously respecting Somalia’s territorial unity. Furthermore, the leaders pledged to set aside past differences in pursuit of cooperative relations. Amidst tensions rooted in a prior agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland regarding access to the Red Sea, Somalia had previously accused Ethiopia of violating its sovereignty.

To counter these tensions, Somalia has reinforced its territorial integrity through defense agreements with Egypt and Turkey. Consequently, Turkey has stepped in to mediate, facilitating the formation of technical teams to assess Ethiopia’s commercial access goals. Ethiopia remains a vital player in assuring stability in Somalia, having contributed a substantial troop presence in the nation.

The ongoing discussions between Somalia and Ethiopia in Ankara reflect a proactive approach to rebuilding bilateral relations after previous tensions. Driven by the Ankara Accord’s principles of mutual respect and cooperation, both nations are committed to overcoming past grievances. The strategic mediation by Turkey highlights its role as a stabilizing force in the region, while Ethiopia’s involvement is essential for Somalia’s peace endeavors.

Original Source: www.garoweonline.com