Ethiopian and Somali leaders have reached a critical agreement to resolve a dispute regarding Ethiopian access to the Arabian Sea, mediated by Turkey’s Erdoğan. This agreement aims to prevent escalation of conflict and fosters Turkey’s role as a peace broker in the Horn of Africa, with forthcoming discussions scheduled to finalize port access details.
Ethiopian President Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud have announced a significant agreement aimed at resolving a prolonged dispute concerning Ethiopia’s access to the Arabian Sea. This pivotal deal was revealed in Ankara after extensive discussions mediated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who is increasingly recognized as a key facilitator in the Horn of Africa. The agreement is anticipated to bolster Turkey’s influence in the region as it continues to foster diplomatic relations with both countries involved in the conflict.
Historically, Ethiopia has experienced developmental impediments due to its status as a landlocked nation since Eritrea’s independence in 1993. In a bid to circumvent these challenges, Ethiopia secured a port leasing agreement with Somaliland in January 2023, which raised tensions with Somalia that responded by threatening to remove Ethiopian troops in their territory combating al-Shabab insurgents. Given the somber history relating to the 1977-78 Ogaden War, stakeholders feared a similar escalation of conflict.
Turkey’s involvement is underscored by its longstanding connections to both Ethiopia and Somalia, as well as its vested interest in maintaining regional stability. With Turkey’s foremost overseas military base located in Somalia, it plays a crucial role in training Somali forces. Turkey also provided military support to the Ethiopian government during the recent Tigray conflict, underscoring its strategic investments and alliances in the region. According to Eurasia Group expert Emre Peker, “The agreement will help make Turkey into an even more relevant power in the region, with Ankara pitching itself as a security partner for African countries.” Additionally, Turkish investments in Ethiopia have surged to over $2 billion, following only Chinese contributions, emphasizing its commitment to economic engagement as well.
Looking ahead, representatives from Ethiopia and Somalia are scheduled to convene again in February to engage in “technical talks” aimed at finalizing the agreements surrounding port access, which holds significant implications for trade and mutual cooperation between the nations involved. This dialogue epitomizes a pivotal step in fostering not only peaceful resolutions to historical conflicts but also enhancing regional trade benefits for stakeholders within the Horn of Africa.
The conflict between Ethiopia and Somalia revolves around the critical issue of Ethiopia’s access to the Arabian Sea, which has considerable implications for its economic development as a landlocked nation. Following Eritrea’s separation in 1993, Ethiopia has been seeking avenues to obtain seaport access to facilitate trade and development. The leasing of a port from Somaliland has led to tensions with Somalia, which fears for its territorial integrity and has threatened to take serious action against Ethiopian troops in the country. Turkey’s diplomatic maneuvering plays a vital role in mediating this complex situation, given its established military and economic ties in the region.
In conclusion, the agreement reached between Ethiopia and Somalia, facilitated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, represents a strategic resolution to longstanding tensions over port access. This development is pivotal not only for regional stability but also for expanding Turkey’s influence in African security matters and economic ventures. With further discussions planned, the implications of this agreement could profoundly impact trade and political relations in the Horn of Africa, aligning interests for greater cooperation.
Original Source: www.gzeromedia.com
