Somalia and Ethiopia Collaborate to Address Somaliland Port Dispute

Somalia and Ethiopia have agreed to work together to resolve a dispute over Ethiopia’s plans to build a port in Somaliland. This collaboration, mediated by President Erdogan, will include technical negotiations beginning by February 2024. Somalia’s opposition to Somaliland’s independence creates challenges, but both countries seek to enhance Ethiopia’s access to the sea, potentially easing regional tensions.

In a recent meeting mediated by Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, the leaders of Somalia and Ethiopia pledged to collaborate on resolving a contentious dispute regarding Ethiopia’s intention to establish a port in Somaliland, a self-declared independent region. This encounter marked their first dialogue since January when Ethiopia’s proposal to lease the port was met with resistance from Somalia. Both nations have agreed to initiate technical negotiations by the end of February 2024, with a goal of concluding discussions within four months to ensure Ethiopia’s reliable access to maritime facilities.

The dispute at the center of this discussion revolves around the status of Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but remains unrecognized internationally. The region has maintained a degree of stability compared to the rest of Somalia, which experiences ongoing conflict. Ethiopia, being landlocked, seeks alternative access to the sea, thus its interest in Somaliland. However, Somalia vehemently opposes the recognition of Somaliland’s independence, further complicating regional dynamics. This situation has significant implications on security and diplomatic relations in the Horn of Africa.

In summary, Somalia and Ethiopia have commenced a cooperative effort to address a critical dispute that has implications for regional stability and development. With a commitment to technical negotiations in the coming months, both nations aim to find mutual arrangements for Ethiopia’s access to maritime facilities while navigating the complex issue of Somaliland’s status. This collaboration represents a significant step towards fostering regional cooperation and mitigating potential conflicts.

Original Source: dunyanews.tv