Senegalese media outlets have acclaimed the recent Ethiopia-Somalia agreement facilitated by Türkiye as a historic achievement in ending a longstanding feud. The Turkish mediation has been crucial in fostering cooperation and peaceful relations between the two nations. The Ankara Declaration emphasizes respect for sovereignty and mutual support, heralding a positive shift in East African diplomacy.
Senegalese media have heralded a significant diplomatic milestone following the agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia, successfully mediated by Turkey. This development marks the conclusion of a prolonged conflict between the two East African nations. Senegal’s notable news platform, Senego, headlined its coverage with the phrase “Historic agreement for enhanced cooperation under the aegis of Türkiye.” This underscores Turkey’s pivotal role in fostering a diplomatic environment conducive to resolving potential disputes amicably in the future.
The tensions arose from Ethiopia’s earlier agreement with Somaliland for access to the Red Sea, sparking disquiet between the neighboring states. The recent meeting in Ankara, attended by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, served as a platform for announcing this historic pact. “We have taken the first step toward a new beginning based on peace, cooperation between Somalia, Ethiopia,” remarked Erdogan during a joint press conference.
In shedding light on historical context, the conflict between Ethiopia and Somalia can be traced back to the latter’s independence from Ethiopia in 1991, which resulted in Ethiopia losing its access to the Red Sea. The January agreement from this year, through which Ethiopia sought port access via Somaliland’s breakaway region, intensified disputes. Turkey’s mediating efforts have been consistent in seeking to bridge the chasm dividing these nations.
The Ankara Declaration, issued post-meeting, emphasized mutual respect for each country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, advocating for a collaborative future. Both leaders expressed their commitment to eschewing contentious issues, focusing instead on achieving mutual prosperity. This agreement not only signifies a turning point in their bilateral relations but also enhances regional stability in East Africa.
The diplomatic tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia have historical underpinnings, intensified by Ethiopia’s quest for access to the Red Sea via Somaliland, particularly following Somaliland’s agreement with Ethiopia earlier this year. The geopolitical significance of this access has made it a point of contention, promoting disagreements that necessitated intervention. The Turkish government has taken a proactive stance in mediating these disputes, aiming for peaceful resolutions and regional harmony. By facilitating discussions between the two nations, Turkey has established itself as an influential actor in East African geopolitics.
The agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia, facilitated through Turkey’s mediation, signifies a historic milestone in the diplomatic relations of the two nations. It holds promise for future collaboration and regional stability, while also emphasizing respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. This positive development reflects an ongoing commitment to peace and cooperation in East Africa, marking a new chapter for both countries as they navigate their shared interests and challenges together.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
