Ethiopia and Somalia Engage in Talks to Strengthen Bilateral Relations in Ankara
Ethiopia and Somalia have commenced talks in Ankara, Turkey, aimed at executing the Ankara Declaration and improving relations following prior tensions. Led by technical teams from both nations, discussions focus on upholding mutual sovereignty and cooperation, with Turkey facilitating mediation. The ongoing dialogue highlights both countries’ commitment to peace and diplomatic ties.
Ethiopia and Somalia have initiated discussions in Ankara, Turkey, with technical teams representing their respective federal governments. This follows established agreements driven by Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, aimed at addressing earlier tensions between the two countries. Somalia’s Minister for Information, Daudi Aweis, confirmed the teams’ arrival, emphasizing the talks’ goal to implement the Ankara Declaration and promote peace and diplomatic relations based on mutual respect.
The discussions are a continuation of the dialogue begun after a significant meeting on February 6, 2025, which involved Ethiopia’s Foreign Affairs Minister Gedion Timotheos and Turkey’s Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Burhanettin Duran. Gedion reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to the Ankara Accord. The Accord underscores a mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity between Ethiopia and Somalia.
The agreement recognizes Ethiopia’s potential need for access to maritime routes while stressing the sovereignty of Somalia. Both nations have agreed to disregard past disputes to focus on constructive cooperation moving forward. Somalia previously accused Ethiopia of violating its territorial integrity amid concerns regarding claims made by the breakaway region of Somaliland.
In response to these tensions, the Federal Republic of Somalia has sought to strengthen its territorial integrity through defense agreements with Egypt and Turkey. Despite these escalated tensions, Turkey has stepped in to facilitate mediation, which has resulted in the formation of technical teams tasked with fostering discussions that may hinge on commercial interests.
The initiation of talks in Ankara represents a critical step towards mending relations between Somalia and Ethiopia, focusing on the implementation of the Ankara Declaration. As both nations strive to enhance cooperation and respect for sovereignty, the mediation efforts by Turkey underscore the importance of dialogue in resolving past tensions. The success of these discussions will depend on the commitment of both parties to work collaboratively for mutual benefit.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
