Somali President and Ethiopian Prime Minister Set to Discuss Somaliland Agreement

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed are scheduled to meet in Ankara to discuss the contentious agreement Ethiopia made with Somaliland. The meeting, first since the agreement’s announcement, is critical as Somalia disputes the legitimacy of Ethiopia’s actions, which it views as a violation of sovereignty. Previous mediation efforts have failed, raising the stakes for this forthcoming dialogue.

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed are set to convene in Ankara, Turkey, for discussions regarding Somaliland, according to Somali officials. Although the meeting is anticipated for Wednesday, it remains unconfirmed by Ethiopian representatives. The dialogue marks the first engagement between the two leaders since Ethiopia’s controversial agreement with Somaliland, which grants access to a critical stretch of coastline in exchange for potential recognition of Somaliland’s independence. Somalia views this agreement as a violation of its sovereignty, asserting that Somaliland is an integral part of the nation. In light of previous unsuccessful mediation attempts and Somalia’s demand for Ethiopia to withdraw from the agreement, this meeting could have significant implications for relations in the region. Additionally, Somalia is expecting the withdrawal of Ethiopian troops by the month’s end as the mandate for an African Union mission concludes.

The ongoing discussions between Somalia and Ethiopia arise from a complex political landscape within the Horn of Africa. Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991, yet has not achieved international recognition. Ethiopia’s recent agreement with Somaliland to access a portion of coastline has escalated tensions, as Somalia asserts that this gesture infringes upon its territorial integrity. The historical context of regional diplomacy, past mediation failures, and external influences contribute to an increasingly fraught relationship between these two nations. Moreover, the anticipated withdrawal of Ethiopian troops adds urgency to the need for resolution, as Somalia grapples with security and stability challenges.

The anticipated meeting between Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed represents a crucial opportunity to address ongoing tensions regarding Somaliland. With both leaders previously unable to reach an agreement amidst conflicting interests, their discussions may significantly impact the geopolitical landscape in the Horn of Africa. The outcomes of this meeting could determine future relations and stability within the region, emphasizing the need for diplomatic engagement and cooperation to avert potential conflict.

Original Source: www.voanews.com