IGAD has praised the Ankara Agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia as a significant diplomatic milestone aimed at strengthening ties and resolving bilateral issues. The agreement, facilitated by Turkish President Erdoğan, emphasizes respect for sovereignty and mutual benefits, including Ethiopia’s access to maritime routes. It highlights the contributions of Ethiopian soldiers in Somalia and outlines the framework for future negotiations regarding sea access, promoting ongoing cooperation in the Horn of Africa.
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has expressed its commendation for the recently signed Ankara Agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia, calling it a significant advancement in fortifying the historical social bonds between the two nations. Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, IGAD’s Executive Secretary, acknowledged the constructive dialogue and collaboration exhibited by the leaders of both countries as vital in addressing common challenges and contributing to regional stability in the Horn of Africa.
The Ankara Declaration, inked on December 11, 2024, under the auspices of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, reiterated a mutual commitment to respecting sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity. Both parties recognized the potential benefits that could emerge from facilitating Ethiopia’s access to maritime routes while also reiterating their intention to overcome existing disputes and establish a solid partnership.
Dr. Workneh further expressed his gratitude toward President Erdoğan, recognizing his instrumental role in facilitating the agreement and highlighting his commitment to fostering diplomatic relations and regional collaboration. The agreement outlines the initiation of technical negotiations regarding Ethiopia’s access to the sea, with discussions set to commence in February 2025 and conclude within four months, aiming to establish mutually beneficial commercial arrangements in line with Somalia’s sovereignty.
Additionally, the declaration acknowledged the sacrifices made by Ethiopian soldiers in Somalia, reinforcing the gratitude felt by Somalia towards their contributions. Furthermore, the declaration expressed appreciation for Türkiye’s ongoing involvement, exemplifying a commitment to the collaborative process initiated through the agreement. IGAD reiterated its support for fostering sustainable solutions in the region through dialogue and mutual cooperation.
The Ankara Agreement represents a diplomatic initiative aimed at reinforcing ties between Ethiopia and Somalia, two neighboring countries with a complex history. The significance of this agreement lies in its potential to enhance cooperation and address longstanding issues that have hindered regional stability. By securing sovereign access to maritime routes for Ethiopia, the agreement seeks to promote economic interdependence while fostering mutual respect for territorial integrity, thus laying the groundwork for a more stable political environment in the Horn of Africa.
In summary, the Ankara Agreement symbolizes a pivotal step towards enhancing diplomatic relations between Ethiopia and Somalia. It underscores the importance of collaboration, mutual respect for sovereignty, and the proactive engagement facilitated by key diplomatic figures, particularly Turkish President Erdoğan. The initiative not only aims to resolve bilateral issues but also promotes broader regional stability, demonstrating the potential of cooperative diplomacy in addressing shared challenges.
Original Source: addisstandard.com
