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Somalia and Ethiopia address port dispute in Ankara talks mediated by Turkey


Monday July 1, 2024


ANKARA, Turkey (HOL) –  Diplomatic efforts took a significant turn as the foreign ministers of Somalia and Ethiopia met in Ankara on July 1, 2024, to address escalating tensions between the two nations. Facilitated by Turkey, this meeting marks a new step towards discussing the highly contentious Ethiopia-Somaliland MoU that has rattled regional stability in the Horn of Africa.

Hosted by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, the talks brought together Ethiopian Foreign Minister Taye Atske Selassie and Somali Foreign Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi. The Turkish hosts said that the ministers engaged in candid and forward-looking discussions aimed at finding mutually acceptable solutions to their differences.

"The Ministers of Somalia and Ethiopia reiterated their commitment to the peaceful resolution of differences and expressed their appreciation to Turkey for its facilitation, as well as its constructive contributions," the joint statement read. This commitment underscores a desire for stability and cooperation in a region often marred by conflict and geopolitical rivalries.

Turkey has a history of mediating conflicts within the Horn of Africa. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has actively pursued diplomatic engagements in the region, positioning Turkey as a key player in fostering regional stability. Turkey's mediation efforts are part of a broader strategy to enhance its influence in Africa through economic, political, and military partnerships.

Somali Foreign Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi noted, "We appreciate Turkey's role in bringing us together. Our commitment to peace is unwavering, and we look forward to resolving our issues through dialogue."

Ethiopian Foreign Minister Taye Atske Selassie echoed these sentiments, stating, "This meeting is a step forward in our efforts to ensure stability and cooperation in our region. We are committed to peaceful resolutions and appreciate Turkey's support."

The planned follow-up meeting in September 2024 indicates a structured approach to continuing the dialogue. This scheduled meeting underscores the commitment of both nations to maintain momentum in their diplomatic efforts. The ongoing engagement reflects a strategic effort to resolve disputes through sustained dialogue and cooperation.

Territorial disputes and political disagreements have exacerbated tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia. A significant point of contention has been the dispute over port access, particularly Ethiopia's interest in utilizing ports in the breakaway region of Somaliland in exchange for the latter's formal recognition. 

In February 2024, Somalia approved a defence pact with Turkey, which includes military training and support provisions. Somali Foreign Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi clarified that the agreement with Turkey was not intended to exacerbate tensions with Ethiopia but to bolster Somalia's defence capabilities. Ethiopia has perceived the pact as a strategic move by Somalia to strengthen its military in the context of regional disputes.

According to official statements following the most recent talks in Ankara, officials from both Somalia and Ethiopia are exploring mutually beneficial arrangements for the use of Somali ports, which are vital for Ethiopia's landlocked economy. Resolving this issue is critical for improving bilateral relations and enhancing economic cooperation between the two countries.

The diplomatic relationship between Somalia and Ethiopia has a complex history marked by conflicts and shifting alliances. Previous attempts at dialogue have seen varying degrees of success, making the recent Ankara talks a watershed moment in their diplomatic engagement.

The international community, including neighbouring countries and regional organizations, is closely monitoring these talks. Maintaining peaceful relations between Somalia and Ethiopia is critical for the region's stability, which has been marred by conflicts and political instability. Turkey's continued facilitation of dialogue may set a precedent for future regional conflicts, demonstrating the efficacy of diplomatic mediation.

Minister Fidan emphasized the importance of dialogue and cooperation: "We believe that through constructive dialogue, we can help our friends in Somalia and Ethiopia find a path to peace and mutual understanding."



 





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