The African Union has called for the swift implementation of an agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia aimed at resolving tensions tied to Ethiopia’s access to the sea. The accord was reached after Turkish mediation and emphasizes cooperation while respecting Somalia’s sovereignty. Technical talks are planned to further define the terms, with international leaders expressing support for this diplomatic effort.
The African Union has urged Ethiopia and Somalia to promptly implement an accord aimed at easing tensions primarily stemming from Ethiopia’s recent agreement with Somaliland, which has created significant unease regarding territorial integrity. Following an extensive series of talks facilitated by Turkey, an agreement described as historic was reached, aimed at fostering cooperation and ensuring Ethiopia’s access to the sea while maintaining Somalia’s sovereignty. Both Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud emphasized their commitment to regional stability and peace.
The details of the newly formed agreement require both nations to set aside contentious issues and focus on a mutual approach towards shared prosperity. This accord aims to ensure Ethiopia’s reliable access to the sea while underscoring the sovereignty of Somalia. Specific measures will be discussed in future technical talks set to commence by February of next year, concluding within four months. The accord has garnered positive responses from international leaders, including the U.S. Secretary of State and the UN Secretary-General, reflecting a collective push toward achieving a peaceful resolution in the region.
The backdrop to this situation involves extended periods of tension marked by Ethiopia’s strategic agreement with Somaliland, a region that declared independence from Somalia in 1991 without international recognition. This move has exacerbated Somalia’s concerns over its sovereignty and led to greater territorial disputes. The involvement of external parties, particularly Turkey, signifies the international dimension of this agreement and highlights the broader implications for East African regional stability.
“Each country’s sovereignty, unity, independence, and territorial integrity” are emphasized as essential aspects of the agreement, as noted by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed optimism regarding the agreement’s potential to facilitate Ethiopia’s access to the sea. Both leaders have expressed hope for a collaborative future. This agreement signifies an important shift in dynamics and could inspire a more stable relationship between Ethiopia and Somalia, amidst a complex political landscape.
The agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia is a crucial development in East Africa, responding to long-standing tensions surrounding access to the sea, particularly for landlocked Ethiopia. Ethiopia’s previous arrangement with Somaliland to lease coastal land for a port and military base raised concerns in Somalia, which has historically contested Somaliland’s independence. The underlying issues of sovereignty and territorial integrity have persisted, necessitating international mediation. The involvement of Turkey highlights external interest in promoting stability within this volatile region, offering a diplomatic avenue for resolving interstate disputes.
The urgent call by the African Union for Ethiopia and Somalia to rapidly implement their agreement reflects the critical need for dialogue and cooperation in East Africa. This initiative aims not only to resolve current tensions but also to establish a framework for future cooperation that respects the sovereignty of both nations. The positive responses from international leaders underscore the potential for this accord to serve as a foundation for peace and stability in the region. However, the impact of Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland remains an essential consideration as the two nations move forward.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
