Ethiopia and Somalia have agreed to collaborate in resolving their differences related to Ethiopia’s plan to build a military base in Somaliland, facilitated by a Turkish-brokered deal. Turkish President Erdogan announced this development, which aims to foster peace and cooperation. Somalia has expressed concerns regarding its territorial integrity, while discussions are set to begin soon with the assistance of Turkey, targeting completion by February 2025.
Ethiopia and Somalia have reached an agreement to address their disagreements regarding a controversial deal that would permit Ethiopia to establish a military base in Somaliland in exchange for a stake in Ethiopian Airlines. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced the arrangement, which was facilitated between Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. The accord aims to solidify a new era of peace and collaboration between the two nations.
Under a previous agreement established on January 1, Somaliland allowed Ethiopia to set up a military installation alongside commercial facilities on its coast. In return, Somaliland was promised an unspecified investment in Ethiopian Airlines, as well as consideration of its recognition as an independent region. Somalia objected to this arrangement, citing threats to its territorial integrity given that Somaliland has declared itself independent since 1991, yet lacks international acknowledgment.
Turkey’s role in mediating the conflict has been part of a broader strategy to expand its influence in Africa, coinciding with efforts to enhance energy security through offshore oil exploration in areas belonging to Somalia. The recent “Ankara Declaration” to reduce tensions followed Somaliland’s electoral changes, which caused uncertainty about the framework of the military base agreement.
Both Ethiopia and Somalia have now committed to setting aside their differences and contentious matters, initiating technical discussions to resolve their issues with Turkey’s assistance, targeting completion by February 2025. This meeting has been regarded positively, as it marks a step toward constructive dialogue despite the uniformity of the principles laid out. It is hoped that the agreement will allow Ethiopian forces to remain active with the African Union peacekeeping mission in Somalia amid ongoing security challenges.
The geopolitical landscape of the Horn of Africa has been characterized by tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia, particularly regarding the status of Somaliland, which has proclaimed independence but remains unrecognized internationally. The area has seen a significant presence of armed conflict, especially with the rise of Islamist insurgent groups, necessitating international mediation and peacekeeping efforts. Ethiopia’s involvement is particularly notable due to its historical presence in the region and ongoing military engagements aimed at stabilizing Somalia. The recent agreement brokered by Turkey exemplifies the intricate relationships and power dynamics in play, underscoring the need for collaborative frameworks for resolving longstanding disputes among neighboring nations.
The agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia marks a pivotal development in their bilateral relations, aimed at resolving conflicts over territorial and sovereignty concerns surrounding Somaliland. The involvement of Turkey as a mediator highlights its strategic interests in enhancing its influence in Africa. While the specific terms of the previous accords are still contentious, the commitment to engage in negotiations signals a willingness to pursue peace. The potential continuation of Ethiopian military support within the African Union mission further underscores the importance of cooperation in addressing regional security challenges.
Original Source: financialpost.com
