The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia praises a new agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia to resolve a dispute over Somaliland. Signed in Ankara, the deal reinforces both nations’ sovereignty and aims to foster regional peace and stability. Leaders have been urged to implement the agreement promptly following previous tensions stemming from Ethiopia’s prior recognition of Somaliland’s independence.
The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) has expressed approval of an agreement reached between Ethiopia and Somalia aimed at resolving longstanding tensions over Ethiopia’s ambition to build a port in Somaliland. Mohamed El-Amine Souef, the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission for Somalia, characterized the deal—signed in Ankara—as a significant step toward fostering regional peace and stability. He emphasized that ATMIS pledges its support for Somalia’s state-building efforts and the overall security transition, aligning with the aspirations of the Somali populace.
The African Union Commission Chairperson, Moussa Faki Mahamat, also praised the agreement, noting the responsibility demonstrated by the leadership of Somalia and Ethiopia. He called for swift implementation of the agreement, reflecting the leaders’ commitment to acknowledging each other’s sovereignty and integrity. This follows prior tensions following a controversial agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland, which Somalia strongly opposed due to its implications for territorial integrity. The leaders of Ethiopia and Somalia have now reaffirmed their allegiance to mutual cooperation and specified arrangements that facilitate Ethiopia’s access to maritime routes.
The agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia comes against a backdrop of heightened tensions due to Ethiopia’s arrangements with Somaliland, a territory Somalis consider integral to their nation. This situation was exacerbated when Ethiopia entered an agreement recognizing Somaliland as an independent state in exchange for access to the Red Sea, a move condemned by the Somali government. The recent reconciliation effort, demonstrated through a diplomatic agreement in Ankara, seeks to stabilize relations and reinforce territorial integrity amidst these complexities.
In conclusion, the agreement between Somalia and Ethiopia marks a pivotal effort to restore accord in a region fraught with historical disputes. With support from the African Union and a commitment to sovereignty, both nations aim to cultivate a cooperative framework conducive to regional stability. The call for implementation by both parties highlights the urgency for diplomacy to prevail over conflict.
Original Source: www.socialnews.xyz
