The United States welcomed the recent agreement between Somalia and Ethiopia aimed at resolving maritime access tensions. This agreement, facilitated by Turkiye, ensures Ethiopia’s secure access to the sea under Somalia’s authority, amid historical disputes over sovereignty. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the importance of honoring each nation’s territorial integrity and encouraged cooperation in combatting Al-Shabab.
On December 11, the United States expressed its approval of the agreement achieved between Somalia and Ethiopia aimed at mitigating regional tensions driven by Ethiopia’s desire for maritime access. There had been ongoing disputes since Ethiopia entered into a deal with Somaliland to lease part of the coastline for military and commercial purposes. The recent accord, mediated by Turkiye, ensures Ethiopia will gain guaranteed and secure maritime access under the sovereignty of Somalia.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken formally welcomed the declaration, emphasizing the reaffirmation of each nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He underscored the importance of upcoming technical negotiations to clarify the modalities of Ethiopia’s maritime access while honoring Somalia’s sovereignty. The historical context reveals that Ethiopia’s prior agreement with Somaliland, which has pursued an independent status since 1991, raised significant concerns in Somalia regarding sovereignty violations.
Amid rising fears of conflict, given the sensitive nature of Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland, Somalia vehemently opposed the original deal, which it perceived as encroachment on its sovereignty. Mr. Blinken extended his gratitude towards Turkiye for facilitating dialogue and called for enhanced cooperation between Somalia and Ethiopia, particularly in addressing mutual security concerns like combatting Al-Shabab.
The geopolitical landscape of the Horn of Africa has been marked by significant tensions, particularly concerning Ethiopia’s landlocked status and its urgent need for maritime access. Ethiopia’s alliance with Somaliland, a region that unilaterally declared independence from Somalia in 1991, exacerbated these tensions by prompting concerns from Somalia regarding its territorial integrity. The involvement of Turkiye in brokering peace talks highlights the increasing role of regional powers in mediating disputes that have the potential to escalate into broader conflicts. The recent agreements signal a thaw in relations and a shared commitment towards stability in the region.
In summation, the United States’ endorsement of the recent Somalia-Ethiopia deal reflects a significant step toward stabilizing tensions in the Horn of Africa. The collaborative efforts mediated by Turkiye demonstrate a proactive approach to addressing historical grievances and fostering cooperation. Essential to the success of this agreement will be the forthcoming negotiations that seek to balance Ethiopia’s demands for sea access with the crucial need to respect Somalia’s sovereignty, ensuring peace and security in the region.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
