Horn of Africa Forum in Djibouti Focuses on Stability Amid Ethiopia-Somalia Tensions

Leaders and scholars gather in Djibouti for a forum aimed at enhancing regional stability in the Horn of Africa, amidst rising tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia over a controversial port deal with Somaliland.

Scholars, politicians, and traditional leaders from the Horn of Africa convened in Djibouti on Monday for a three-day forum focused on enhancing regional stability. This eighth annual forum, organized by the Heritage Institute for Policy Studies in Somalia, aims to facilitate discussions among nearly 300 delegates from various backgrounds about pressing regional issues, particularly in light of the ongoing tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia.

The recent tensions stem from a port agreement signed by Ethiopia with Somaliland, a self-declared independent region that Somalia considers part of its territory. This memorandum grants Ethiopia a long-term lease for port access, which Somalia views as a violation of its sovereignty. Concurrently, Ethiopia insists that the agreement does not encroach on Somalia’s territorial integrity. Fears of escalating conflict loom as previous negotiations mediated by Turkey between the two countries failed to produce a resolution.

At the forum’s commencement, Somali Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi emphasized Somalia’s quest for peace and the importance of adhering to international law. Djibouti’s Minister of Justice and Religion, Mumin Hassan Barre, echoed similar sentiments, urging the experts present to contribute positively towards the region’s stability. The event has brought together participants from Somalia and its neighbors, along with members of the diaspora from various global regions, fostering a collaborative environment for addressing regional challenges.

The Horn of Africa is a region characterized by complex political dynamics and historical conflicts, particularly involving Somalia and its breakaway region, Somaliland. Somaliland declared independence in 1991, yet Somalia still regards it as part of its sovereign territory. The recent port agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland has heightened tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia, with Somalia perceiving this as an infringement upon its sovereignty. This forum, set against this backdrop, serves as a platform for dialogue among region stakeholders to seek pathways to stability.

The forum in Djibouti signifies a critical effort among the stakeholders of the Horn of Africa to address regional tensions and foster cooperative dialogue. Amidst the backdrop of escalating disputes between Somalia and Ethiopia relating to Somaliland, the discussions aim to unify various voices from the region and promote peace through adherence to international law and mutual respect for sovereignty. The outcome of these dialogues could play a pivotal role in shaping the future stability of the Horn of Africa.

Original Source: www.voanews.com