Ethiopia has not responded to Djibouti’s proposal to ease tensions with Somalia by offering port access for Ethiopian maritime trade. Djibouti awaits communication from Ethiopia regarding the Tojarah port, which could lead to collaborative economic benefits. Somalia remains open to a commercial deal but rejects any military presence. Efforts by Turkey to mediate have stalled due to Somalia’s conditions concerning Ethiopia’s agreements with Somaliland.
Ethiopia has yet to respond to Djibouti’s recent proposal aimed at reducing tensions with Somalia, a situation that has captured the attention of various international stakeholders. Approximately one month ago, Mohamoud Ali Youssouf, the Foreign Affairs Minister of Djibouti, announced that his country was prepared to assist in resolving the territorial dispute surrounding Ethiopia’s access to the sea—an issue of great significance given Ethiopia’s landlocked status. Minister Youssouf indicated that Djibouti would offer a port, which would be jointly managed by both nations as a potential avenue for Ethiopia’s maritime trade. In a statement made during an interview with Voice of America, Minister Youssouf confirmed that Djibouti is still awaiting a response from Ethiopia regarding the proposal, specifically in relation to the Tojarah port situated in northern Djibouti, which has been suggested as an alternative maritime route for Ethiopia. This proposal reflects Djibouti’s ongoing efforts to facilitate economic cooperation by potentially alleviating Ethiopia’s reliance on neighboring countries for trade. “The proposal remains on the table. We aim to reduce tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia by offering a northern port to Ethiopia for commercial use,” said Youssouf, highlighting the potential economic benefits and joint ventures that could emerge from this agreement. Despite Djibouti’s overtures, Somalia has expressed its unwillingness to permit any military presence on its territory but has indicated a readiness to negotiate a commercial arrangement with Ethiopia. It is noteworthy that Ethiopia has recognized Somaliland—a self-declared independent region in Somalia—as a sovereign entity in exchange for access to 20 kilometers of the Red Sea. However, Somalia’s stance remains firm in asserting that there can be no military facilities: “If Ethiopia wants commercial access, we are open to that. But there will be no naval base,” emphasized Minister Mohamud. Efforts have been made to mediate the complex situation between Ethiopia and Somalia, with Turkey stepping in to facilitate dialogue; however, previous discussions were halted after Somalia stipulated that Ethiopia must withdraw its agreement with Somaliland prior to any negotiations commencing.
The tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia have historical roots, primarily revolving around Ethiopia’s access to the sea, which has been a point of contention since Ethiopia became landlocked in 1993 following Eritrea’s independence. Djibouti has offered a potential solution through the provision of a port, encouraging bilateral trade and economic collaboration. Somalia’s position is critical, as it involves national sovereignty issues and the management of its territorial waters. The recognition of Somaliland by Ethiopia complicates these dynamics further, thus making negotiations crucial for regional stability.
In conclusion, Djibouti’s proposal to establish a jointly managed port for Ethiopian access to maritime routes represents a significant step toward potentially easing tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia. However, Ethiopia’s silence thus far leaves the proposal in limbo, raising questions about future diplomatic relations and the feasibility of cooperative economic development without military entanglements. Continued negotiations and diplomatic efforts will be essential in addressing these intricate geopolitical issues.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
