Ethiopia and Somalia Initiate Technical Talks in Turkey to Resolve Dispute
Ethiopia and Somalia began their first round of technical discussions in Ankara to address tensions arising from an agreement granting Ethiopia maritime access in exchange for recognition of Somaliland’s independence. Turkey is mediating discussions to resolve these disputes, with a second round of talks slated for March.
On Tuesday, diplomats from Ethiopia and Somalia engaged in their inaugural round of technical discussions in Ankara, Turkey, to address a dispute linked to an agreement between Ethiopia and the unrecognized Somalia region of Somaliland. Turkey, acting as a mediator, has sought to alleviate tensions in a region already marked by instability. The disagreement intensified following Ethiopia’s memorandum with Somaliland to lease coastal land for a marine base, which Somalia contends violates its sovereignty.
This diplomatic dialogue follows an earlier agreement made in December between the leaders of Ethiopia and Somalia to start discussions that might preserve Somalia’s territorial claims while granting Ethiopia maritime access. The Turkish Foreign Ministry reported a productive atmosphere during the negotiations, which were led by Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos and Somali State Minister for Foreign Affairs Ali Mohamed Omar.
The Turkish Foreign Ministry noted the delegations’ commitment to the principles outlined in the Ankara Declaration, stating, “Both delegations demonstrated their commitment to the letter and spirit of the Ankara Declaration.” The next round of technical talks is scheduled for March, underscoring a continued commitment to resolving this critical dispute.
Turkey maintains significant investments in Somalia, including the establishment of its largest overseas military facility. Somaliland, having declared independence from Somalia over three decades ago, remains unrecognized by the African Union or the United Nations, which maintains that Somaliland is a part of Somalia. With a population exceeding 120 million, Ethiopia stands as the most populous landlocked nation worldwide.
In summary, Ethiopia and Somalia’s technical talks in Turkey represent a vital step toward resolving ongoing territorial disputes exacerbated by Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland. Both nations aim to uphold Somalia’s sovereignty while seeking Ethiopia’s necessary access to maritime resources. The commitment shown by both parties to continue negotiations is promising for a peaceful resolution.
Original Source: apnews.com
