Ethiopia’s Diplomatic Initiatives to Resolve Djibouti-Eritrea Tensions
Ethiopia is working to mediate relations between Eritrea and Djibouti, highlighting a commitment to regional stability and cooperation. Ambassador Takeda Alemu emphasized the need for inclusivity, while Djibouti seeks UN assistance to address border disputes with Eritrea. These diplomatic efforts follow significant peace agreements in the region, notably the Ethio-Eritrean peace accord that ended decades of conflict. The resolution of tensions between Djibouti and Eritrea is seen as crucial for regional security.
Ethiopia is actively pursuing the restoration of diplomatic relations between Eritrea and Djibouti, as stated by its envoy to the United Nations during a Security Council meeting this past Monday. Ambassador Takeda Alemu emphasized that this initiative is part of a broader commitment to fostering inclusive progress within the Horn of Africa region. He noted the significant shifts in regional security dynamics following peaceful accords between Ethiopia and Eritrea, as well as normalization efforts between Eritrea and Somalia. Ambassador Alemu conveyed Ethiopia’s belief in the importance of regional collaboration, asserting that all nations should share in the positive transformations occurring within the area. He remarked, “I want to take this opportunity to assure you, Mr. President, that the prevailing spirit is one of embracing and not excluding anyone.” This affirmation underlines Ethiopia’s commitment to mediating effectively between Eritrea and Djibouti to promote regional peace and security. Recently, Djibouti’s Foreign Minister visited Ethiopia to communicate President Guelleh’s message and held constructive discussions with Ethiopian counterparts. Ethiopia’s dedication to supporting normalization between Djibouti and Eritrea is framed within its broader policy of inclusivity, reflecting the understanding that no nation should be marginalized in the evolving landscape of regional cooperation. Ambassador Alemu’s remarks focused on the swift changes affecting the politics of the Horn of Africa, indicating that the time has come for renewed dialogue and collaboration among regional powers. Furthermore, following the peace deal between Ethiopia and Eritrea, Djibouti has intensified its efforts to mend its fractured relations with Eritrea, calling upon the United Nations for assistance in resolving their ongoing border dispute. Djibouti’s ambassador to the U.N. emphasized the need for international mediation that would be legally binding in establishing a peaceful resolution to the conflict regarding the Dumeira mountain and island, sites claimed by Djibouti to be illegally occupied by Eritrea. Long-standing sanctions against Eritrea, primarily due to its support for Al-Shabaab and its confrontational posture towards Djibouti, have complicated the situation. The recent diplomatic thaw between Eritrea and Ethiopia provides a renewed impetus for resolving regional tensions, as evidenced by the historic agreements between Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed of Ethiopia and President Isaias Afwerki of Eritrea. Overall, the developments in the Horn of Africa reflect a potential shift towards greater regional cooperation and diplomatic engagement, heralding a new chapter in the relationships among these neighboring nations.
The current diplomatic endeavor initiated by Ethiopia aims to mitigate tensions and foster reconciliation between Djibouti and Eritrea, two nations that have struggled with historical grievances and territorial disputes. This effort gains significance against the backdrop of Ethiopia’s recent peace agreement with Eritrea, which ended two decades of enmity. The impetus for this mediation is rooted in a broader strategy to promote stability and development within the Horn of Africa, an area that has faced numerous conflicts and geopolitical challenges. Furthermore, the involvement of the United Nations underscores the international dimension of this dispute, as Djibouti seeks external assistance to resolve its territorial claims against Eritrea amicably and legally.
In conclusion, Ethiopia is undertaking a significant role in mediating between Eritrea and Djibouti amid an evolving landscape of regional cooperation in the Horn of Africa. The actions of Ethiopia and Djibouti reflect a collective aspiration for stability and lasting peace, necessitating inclusive dialogue and international support to resolve territorial disputes. The outcomes of these diplomatic efforts hold vital implications for the security dynamics of the region, marking a transformative period in the Horn of Africa’s geopolitical interactions.
Original Source: www.africanews.com