Ethiopia and Somalia commenced talks in Ankara to resolve a dispute over Somaliland’s recognition. The discussions aim to respect Somalia’s territorial integrity while allowing Ethiopian access to maritime resources. Turkey is mediating the talks amid tensions following a memorandum signed between Ethiopia and Somaliland. A follow-up meeting is planned for March to continue negotiations.
Ethiopia and Somalia engaged in their first round of technical talks in Ankara, Turkey, aiming to address a dispute resulting from Ethiopia’s deal with Somaliland, a breakaway region of Somalia. This meeting was facilitated by Turkey’s Foreign Ministry, which has taken a mediatory role amidst rising tensions in the Horn of Africa. The disagreement stems from Ethiopia’s plan to establish a marine force base on Somaliland’s coast in exchange for formally recognizing its independence, which Somalia claims violates its sovereignty.
The discussions follow a meeting in December between the leaders of both nations in Turkey, where they agreed to pursue technical negotiations that would respect Somalia’s territorial integrity while granting Ethiopia necessary maritime access. Led by Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos and Somalia’s state minister for foreign affairs, Ali Mohamed Omar, both delegations reaffirmed their commitment to the principles of the Ankara Declaration.
Turkey’s Foreign Ministry emphasized the productive nature of the talks, stating that the delegations began substantive work to turn their vision into a viable agreement. A follow-up meeting is scheduled for March to further these negotiations. Turkey’s involvement extends beyond diplomacy as it also holds significant investments in Somalia, including a major military base.
Somaliland’s unilateral secession from Somalia over three decades ago remains unrecognized by the African Union and the United Nations, which complicates the issue further. Somalia continues to consider Somaliland as part of its national territory, adding layers of complexity to the already tense relations. Ethiopia, as the world’s most populous landlocked nation with over 120 million residents, is keen on securing a coastal foothold to support its international interests.
In summary, the first round of technical talks between Ethiopia and Somalia marks a crucial step towards resolving the dispute over Somaliland’s recognition and territorial claims. Turkey’s mediating role underscores its strategic interests in the region while addressing rising tensions. The upcoming talks in March will be pivotal for both nations in navigating their complex relationship and ensuring stability in the Horn of Africa.
Original Source: apnews.com
