Ethiopia and Somalia Seek Diplomatic Resolution After Border Clashes

Ethiopia and Somalia held talks following a deadly border clash. Somalia condemned Ethiopian forces’ actions, while Ethiopia denied wrongdoing, blaming external destabilizing factors. Despite recent tensions over regional agreements and military skirmishes, both countries expressed a commitment to nurturing their diplomatic relationship, guided by the Ankara Declaration.

Ethiopia and Somalia convened discussions on Tuesday, aiming to transcend a violent clash that occurred the previous day along their contentious border. The meeting involved Somalia’s state minister for foreign affairs, Ali Mohamed Omar, and Ethiopian foreign minister, Mesganu Arega, following skirmishes in the Jubaland region, where Ethiopian troops reportedly intervened to shield their local politicians from Somali military aggression in Doolow.

The Somali minister conveyed the nation’s “protest and condemnation of the conduct of Ethiopian forces in Doolow,” as stated in a formal communication. In response, Ethiopia’s foreign ministry released a declaration denying any wrongdoing, attributing the conflict to “third parties… intent on destabilising the Horn of Africa.” No further specifics were provided regarding these allegations.

The Jubaland state administration asserted that Somali federal troops attempted to down a plane carrying local politicians, with Ethiopian forces stationed at the airstrip intervening to prevent this incident as part of their anti-insurgency efforts. Nevertheless, both nations sought to uphold a recent diplomatic thaw facilitated by Turkey.

Relations between Ethiopia and Somalia have been strained since January when an agreement involving Ethiopia and the breakaway region Somaliland was perceived as a breach of Somali sovereignty, igniting significant diplomatic and military tensions. The impasse seemingly eased following a meeting on December 12 between Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in Ankara, leading to a commitment for enhancing sea access for landlocked Ethiopia.

Ethiopia expressed its dedication to fostering improved relations in line with the Ankara Declaration, while Somalia’s foreign ministry echoed a commitment to collaboratively implement the agreements stemming from their discussions.

The diplomatic relationship between Ethiopia and Somalia has historically oscillated between cooperation and conflict. Recent tensions have emerged particularly after Ethiopia’s controversial agreement with Somaliland over territorial logistics that Somalia perceived as violating its sovereignty. The backdrop is further complicated by ethnic and political complexities in the Horn of Africa, indicating a need for stable cooperation to mitigate potential conflicts.

In conclusion, the recent meetings between Ethiopia and Somalia indicate a mutual desire to navigate diplomatic tensions after a violent border incident. Both nations are committed to fostering their relationship, as demonstrated by their references to the Ankara Declaration. The ongoing negotiations reflect a broader strategic imperative to maintain stability in the Horn of Africa and enhance cooperation despite underlying conflicts.

Original Source: www.barrons.com