US Supports Ethiopia-Somalia Agreement on Maritime Access

The United States welcomed the recent agreement between Somalia and Ethiopia aimed at resolving tensions regarding maritime access. This deal follows Ethiopia’s controversial partnership with Somaliland, heightening sovereignty concerns for Somalia. Key US diplomat Antony Blinken emphasized the importance of respecting territorial integrity while looking forward to technical negotiations that ensure Ethiopia’s sea access. There is an encouragement for intensified cooperation on mutual security interests, particularly against Al-Shabab.

On December 11, 2023, the United States expressed its support for the recently signed agreement between Somalia and Ethiopia aimed at resolving regional tensions stemming from Ethiopia’s quest for maritime access. This accord comes after a period of conflict, primarily triggered by Ethiopia’s agreement in January with Somaliland, a region that proclaimed independence from Somalia in 1991, for leasing a coastal area intended for a port and military base.

The mediation by Turkey proved crucial, leading to a new deal that guarantees “reliable, safe, and sustainable access” to the sea for Ethiopia while reaffirming Somalia’s sovereignty. Antony Blinken, the U.S. Secretary of State, welcomed this resolution, emphasizing the importance of both nations preserving their sovereignty and territorial integrity. Blinken indicated anticipation for upcoming technical discussions that will clarify the arrangement for Ethiopia’s sea access in a manner that respects Somalia’s constitutional rights.

Previously, following Ethiopia’s partnership with Somaliland, the latter indicated that it would seek official recognition from Ethiopia, a claim that Ethiopia neither confirmed nor denied. Somalia condemned this partnership as a breach of its sovereignty, raising concerns over potential escalations in conflict within the precarious regional dynamics.

Secretary Blinken also expressed appreciation for Turkey’s role in facilitating the agreement and encouraged increased collaboration between Ethiopia and Somalia, particularly in addressing mutual security challenges, specifically against Al-Shabab insurgents. His remarks coincided with his diplomatic discussions in Ankara with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan concerning regional stability.

Ethiopia, being a landlocked country, has sought maritime access for economic development and trade. The advent of conflict arose in January when Ethiopia partnered with Somaliland for a lease of a coastal region, igniting sovereignty concerns from Somalia, which views Somaliland as a part of its territory that unilaterally declared independence. Mediation by Turkey has led to a new accord intended to cool tensions and clarify Ethiopia’s access to the sea while respecting Somalia’s sovereignty, crucial for both nations amid their historical complexities relating to territorial claims and regional stability.

The recent agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia is a significant step toward regional stability and cooperation, emphasizing respect for sovereignty and collaboration against common threats. The commitment from the United States to support this deal and encourage further negotiations reflects a broader strategic interest in promoting peace and security in the Horn of Africa. By facilitating the dialogue, Turkey also cemented its role as a key diplomatic player in the region’s geopolitical landscape.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com