Somalia and Ethiopia have agreed to collaborate to resolve a port dispute in Somaliland, mediated by Turkey. The countries aim to establish reliable access for Ethiopia to the seas and have committed to technical negotiations by February 2024. The relationship dynamics in the region remain complex and influenced by external powers.
In a significant development, Somalia and Ethiopia have announced their intention to collaboratively address the dispute over Ethiopia’s proposal to construct a port in the self-declared independent region of Somaliland. This dialogue, mediated by Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, marked their first engagement since January. The leaders of both nations agreed to establish commercial arrangements that would provide Ethiopia with reliable access to maritime routes, thus promoting stability in the Horn of Africa.
The quest for a stable port access for Ethiopia has implications not only for its economic needs, given its landlocked status, but also for regional security dynamics. Somaliland, having declared independence from Somalia in 1991, has enjoyed relative peace compared to the ongoing instability in Somalia. Nonetheless, the recognition of Somaliland’s independence remains contentious, with Somalia fiercely opposing any international acknowledgment. The involvement of Turkey highlights the strategic interests that external powers have in the region, particularly concerning shipping routes and security assistance.
The collaborative approach adopted by Somalia and Ethiopia represents a potential step towards resolving longstanding tensions regarding Somaliland’s port. Both nations appear committed to technical negotiations aimed at establishing a mutually beneficial solution by mid-2024. This effort underscores the growing influence of mediation by external parties like Turkey and the need for stability in the Horn of Africa, where inter-state relations are deeply interwoven with historical grievances.
Original Source: dunyanews.tv
