African Union Calls for Swift Implementation of Somalia-Ethiopia Agreement

The African Union has urged Somalia and Ethiopia to promptly implement an agreement aimed at resolving tensions over Ethiopia’s access to the sea. The deal follows a controversial arrangement between Ethiopia and Somaliland. The AU emphasizes the importance of cooperation and regional stability, while concerns remain regarding the implications for Somalia’s sovereignty.

The African Union (AU) has called upon Somalia and Ethiopia to expedite the implementation of a significant agreement aimed at alleviating tensions arising from Ethiopia’s access to the sea. This request follows a contentious deal struck between Ethiopia and Somaliland, a region that declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has not gained international recognition. The AU emphasized the importance of the recently brokered agreement, which was described as vital for promoting peace and cooperation in the region.

The agreement was facilitated through Turkish mediation, resulting in discussions between Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. Following negotiations, both leaders acknowledged the necessity of working collaboratively to address their mutual interests, emphasizing regional stability as a priority. The AU’s Commission Chairman, Moussa Faki Mahamat, underscored the urgency with which the leaders must act to fulfill the terms discussed without delay.

While the AU and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) welcomed this diplomatic advancement, concerns linger regarding the implications of the deal on Ethiopia’s understanding with Somaliland. Although the comprehensive details of technical terms are yet to be disclosed, the agreement seeks to ensure Ethiopia’s sustainable access to the sea, reinforced by the acknowledgment of Somalia’s sovereign authority.

Despite historic ties, relations between Somalia and Ethiopia have recently become strained, particularly after Somalia expelled Ethiopia’s ambassador and excluded Ethiopian troops from a forthcoming African Union peacekeeping force against Islamist insurgents. The situation remains delicate, as the backdrop of Ethiopia’s landlocked status, resulting from Eritrea’s independence in 1993, continues to foster regional tensions.

The main topic revolves around the longstanding tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia, particularly concerning Ethiopia’s access to the sea. Ethiopia, which has been landlocked since Eritrea’s independence in 1993, has sought access through agreements with Somalia and its semi-autonomous region, Somaliland. The recent agreement, facilitated by Turkey, aims to forge a cooperative path forward, although it raises questions regarding the legitimacy of Somaliland’s deal with Ethiopia and potential conflicts over sovereignty. The African Union plays a crucial role in mediating these regional tensions and promoting peace in East Africa.

In conclusion, the African Union has called for the swift implementation of a recent agreement aimed at pacifying ongoing tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia regarding access to maritime resources. This agreement is seen as a critical step towards fostering cooperation and stability in the East African region, despite underlying complexities involving Somaliland. The AU and regional actors continue to advocate for dialogue and collaboration, although the situation remains sensitive and requires careful navigation to avert conflict.

Original Source: www.seychellesnewsagency.com