Ethiopia and Somalia have initiated talks in Ankara, Turkey, following the Ankara Declaration to enhance mutual cooperation and diplomatic ties. Somalia’s Minister of Information, Daudi Aweis, affirmed their dedication to implementing the agreement, which focuses on respecting each other’s sovereignty. The discussions were prompted by past tensions over territorial issues and Ethiopia’s role as a security partner in Somalia.
Technical discussions between Somalia and Ethiopia commenced in Ankara, Turkey, as part of the Ankara Declaration agreed upon last year to foster peace and diplomatic relations. Daudi Aweis, Somalia’s information minister, emphasized the teams are working towards enhancing cooperation based on mutual respect after a significant period of tension.
This dialogue follows a recent meeting between Ethiopia’s Foreign Affairs minister Gedion Timotheos and Turkey’s Deputy Foreign Affairs minister Burhanettin Duran, where they reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to the accord. The agreement underscores the leaders’ dedication to sovereignty, territorial integrity, and mutual respect amid past grievances surrounding territorial disputes.
Somalia previously accused Ethiopia of undermining its territorial integrity through secret dealings with Somaliland, which included exclusive access to the Red Sea in exchange for recognition. In response to perceived threats, Somalia established defense agreements with Egypt and Turkey, exacerbating tensions with Ethiopia.
Turkey’s involvement as a mediator stems from the deep-rooted partnerships among these nations, facilitating the establishment of technical teams to evaluate Ethiopia’s interests in commercial terms. Ethiopia’s significant military presence in Somalia has positioned it as a crucial security partner in the quest for stability in the region.
The recent talks in Ankara signify a pivotal step towards rebuilding relations between Somalia and Ethiopia after a prolonged period of tension. By focusing on mutual cooperation and adherence to the Ankara Declaration, both nations aim to resolve historical grievances while ensuring respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. The involvement of Turkey as a mediator highlights the significance of diplomatic engagement in addressing such conflicts.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
