Somalia Delegation Visits Addis Ababa to Strengthen Ankara Agreement Commitments

A Somali delegation visited Addis Ababa to reinforce the Ankara Agreement, signed to promote peace and cooperation in the Horn of Africa, granting Ethiopia maritime access under Somalia’s sovereignty, which is crucial for Ethiopia’s economic development. With commitments to mutual respect and dialogue, the agreement aims to resolve historical tensions, enhancing regional ties and stability.

On December 14, 2017, a delegation from Somalia, led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ali Omar, arrived in Addis Ababa with the objective of reinforcing the commitments made in the Ankara Agreement. Announced on its official X page, the Somalia Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed that the visit aims to enhance bilateral relations with Ethiopia, a commitment initiated during talks in Ankara, facilitated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

The Ankara Agreement, signed on December 2, 2017, by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, represents a pivotal moment for peace and cooperation in the Horn of Africa. President Erdoğan characterized the agreement as “historic,” reflecting aspirations for greater stability in the region. One of the agreement’s significant provisions allows Ethiopia access to a “reliable, safe, and sustainable sea passage” under the sovereignty of Somalia, which is essential for Ethiopia’s economic development as a landlocked country.

Prime Minister Abiy emphasized Ethiopia’s intent to resolve disputes amicably, stating, “Ethiopia’s desire to have a sea passage is a peaceful endeavor that benefits our neighbors as well. This desire should not be viewed with suspicion but in the spirit of cooperation.” The delegation’s visit corresponds with ongoing efforts to enhance cooperation between Ethiopia and Somalia, focusing on mutual respect and shared interests.

The agreement signifies both nations’ commitment to overcoming historical tensions, including those relating to previous agreements with Somaliland. Key points of the Ankara Agreement include respect for each country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, setting aside past disputes for cooperative relations, acknowledgment of sacrifices made by Ethiopian soldiers under the African Union, and the commitment to reliable maritime access for Ethiopia. Furthermore, both nations agreed to commence technical negotiations in February, facilitated by Turkey, and accepted Turkey’s role in mediating any disputes that may arise.

Recently, French President Emmanuel Macron expressed support for Ethiopia’s maritime efforts, underlining the international interest in stability and economic growth in the Horn of Africa. The implementation of the Ankara Agreement could provide a framework for resolving regional conflicts and enhancing economic cooperation, heralding a transformative era for Ethiopian-Somali relations.

The Ankara Agreement emerged against the backdrop of historically strained relations between Ethiopia and Somalia, with underlying conflicts often stemming from territorial disputes and varying interests in the Horn of Africa. Its signing was viewed as an essential step towards promoting peace, cooperation, and economic collaboration, particularly highlighting Ethiopia’s need for maritime access. The involvement of Turkey showcases a growing interest from international actors in stabilizing the region and encourages dialogue among neighboring countries, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and sovereignty.

In summary, the delegation from Somalia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs underlines a strong commitment to the Ankara Agreement, which aims to foster cooperative ties between Somalia and Ethiopia. By prioritizing peace and respect for sovereignty, and engaging in diplomatic negotiations, both nations are positioning themselves to enhance economic opportunities and regional stability. The international community’s attention to these developments may further support the successful implementation of this landmark agreement, promoting shared prosperity in the region.

Original Source: addisinsight.net