Ethiopia Remains Silent on Djibouti’s Proposal to Ease Tensions with Somalia

Ethiopia has not yet responded to Djibouti’s proposal to ease tensions with Somalia, which involves offering a jointly managed port as an alternative maritime access for Ethiopia. Djibouti’s Foreign Affairs Minister emphasizes the aim to reduce discord and enhance economic collaboration. However, Somalia insists on no military presence and diplomatic mediation attempts have faced setbacks.

Ethiopia has yet to respond to Djibouti’s proposal aimed at reducing tensions with Somalia, despite significant international support for the initiative. Djibouti’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Mohamoud Ali Youssouf, expressed the country’s willingness to facilitate a solution regarding Ethiopia’s access to the sea through Somalia by offering a port in northern Djibouti for joint management. Mr. Youssouf mentioned that the proposal still stands as a means to alleviate hostilities between Ethiopia and Somalia, noting that if accepted, such an arrangement could stimulate economic collaboration between the two nations. He emphasized that, although Somalia is resistant to hosting any military presence from Ethiopia, it is open to a commercial arrangement concerning the port. Ethiopia has signaled its intention to recognize Somaliland as a separate entity in return for access to the Red Sea, a step aligned with its efforts to establish maritime trade routes. Despite Djibouti’s proactive stance, the diplomatic efforts have been marred by complexities, including Turkey’s mediation attempts, which were stalled due to Somalia’s insistence on Ethiopia’s withdrawal from the agreement before proceeding with discussions.

The geopolitical dynamics between Ethiopia, Djibouti, and Somalia are intricate, exacerbated by Ethiopia’s lack of direct access to the sea. This reliance on neighboring nations for trade routes has pivotal implications for its economic strategy. Djibouti’s offer of a port is a significant development, aimed at enhancing Ethiopia’s commercial avenues while potentially alleviating long-standing tensions. The situation is further complicated by Somalia’s position against military agreements, highlighting the need for a balance between commercial cooperation and national sovereignty.

In summary, Ethiopia’s silence regarding Djibouti’s proposal highlights the complexities of regional diplomacy. The initiative aims not only to enhance Ethiopia’s economic access but also to foster peaceful relations with Somalia. As conversations linger, the onus remains on Ethiopia to engage, while stakeholders like Djibouti and international mediators await clarity on the path forward.

Original Source: www.garoweonline.com