Ethiopia and Somalia have reached a pivotal agreement to end months of diplomatic tension. This comes after a third round of negotiations mediated by Turkey, during which both nations pledged to protect each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The agreement sets the stage for technical talks by February to iron out details over a controversial maritime access deal signed by Ethiopia with Somaliland.
Background of the Dispute
The diplomatic dispute between Ethiopia and Somalia began on January 1 when Somaliland’s President, Muse Bihi Abdi, and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed signed a “historic” memorandum of understanding. This agreement involved leasing 20 kilometers of seafront to Ethiopia for 50 years in exchange for diplomatic recognition. The Somali government promptly rejected the deal, labeling it “null and void” and accusing Ethiopia of violating its sovereignty and territorial integrity. This tension was further compounded by fears that the deal could pave the way for Somaliland’s de facto independence, which would be unacceptable to the Somali government.
The Somali government argued that the agreement was a blatant breach of international law and Somalia’s territorial sovereignty. They condemned the deal as undermining national unity and potentially destabilizing the region. Ethiopia’s move to sign the deal was seen as an effort to secure reliable access to the sea, a crucial need for its landlocked economy.
Mediation by Turkey and the “Ankara Declaration”
The breakthrough came after Turkish President Tayyip Recep Erdogan intervened as a mediator, facilitating talks between the two leaders. The resulting “Ankara Declaration” marked a significant shift in relations between Somalia and Ethiopia. The declaration emphasized mutual respect for each other’s sovereignty, unity, independence, and territorial integrity, as well as adherence to international law, the UN Charter, and the Constitutive Act of the African Union.
Under the terms of the agreement, both countries committed to putting aside their differences and cooperating for the mutual benefit of their peoples. The declaration highlighted the potential economic benefits for Ethiopia, which has long been seeking reliable access to the sea to boost its trade and economic development. The Somali government, recognizing Ethiopia’s strategic position and its contribution to regional peacekeeping, acknowledged the sacrifices made by Ethiopian troops in Somalia, especially as part of the African Union Missions.
Path Forward: Technical Negotiations and Commercial Arrangements
A crucial component of the agreement is the planned technical negotiations starting in February. These talks will focus on the specifics of Ethiopia’s sea access, including details about commercial arrangements, lease contracts, and other similar modalities that would allow Ethiopia sustainable and secure access to and from the sea. These negotiations are set to be facilitated by Turkey, underscoring the role of external actors in maintaining peace and stability in the region.
The technical negotiations aim to be concluded within four months of their start, resulting in agreements that would ensure Ethiopia’s maritime needs are met while respecting Somalia’s sovereignty. The “mutually advantageous commercial arrangements” will also involve bilateral agreements to secure Ethiopia’s access to ports under the authority of the Somali government. This approach not only aims to ease the tension between the two nations but also sets a precedent for resolving disputes in the region through dialogue and mutual respect.
Implications and Future Prospects
The agreement is seen as a major diplomatic breakthrough for both countries. It underscores the commitment of Somali and Ethiopian leaders to fostering stability and cooperation in the Horn of Africa. The recognition of each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity is a significant step toward resolving long-standing disputes and preventing future conflicts.
For Ethiopia, this deal represents a crucial step in addressing its economic needs, particularly as it seeks to expand trade routes and reduce its dependency on external ports. The strategic importance of secure and reliable maritime access cannot be overstated, especially given Ethiopia’s economic ambitions in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and services.
For Somalia, the agreement signifies a return to stability and unity after a period of political upheaval. It demonstrates the country’s ability to negotiate with neighboring states and protect its interests on the international stage. The endorsement of the African Union’s principles and UN Charter reaffirms Somalia’s commitment to regional cooperation and stability.
In conclusion, the agreement reached between Ethiopia and Somalia marks a significant milestone in the Horn of Africa’s diplomatic landscape. The “Ankara Declaration” provides a framework for resolving disputes through dialogue and cooperation, paving the way for a more stable and prosperous future for both nations. As the technical negotiations get underway, the focus will be on securing mutually beneficial agreements that uphold the sovereignty and territorial integrity of both countries, ensuring lasting peace in the region.
