Ethiopia and Somalia Reaffirm Commitment to Ankara Agreement Implementation

Ethiopia commits to the full implementation of the Ankara Agreement following discussions with a Somali delegation. The talks, led by Ali Omar, aim to strengthen bilateral relations and address prior tensions sparked by Ethiopia’s actions concerning Somaliland. Both nations emphasize the importance of continued dialogue to ensure regional stability and peace.

Ethiopia has formally expressed its commitment to the full implementation of the Ankara Agreement in discussions with a Somali delegation, led by Ali Omar, Somalia’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs. The meeting, held in Addis Ababa, focused on enhancing bilateral relations and implementing the Ankara Declaration, which emphasizes respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. Ambassador Mesganu Arga asserted that sustainable peace in Somalia is critical for Ethiopia, underscoring the necessity for ongoing cooperation to combat regional instability. Both nations agreed on the importance of continuity in discussions to foster effective collaboration and strengthen ties, with Somalia’s delegation describing the dialogue as fruitful.

The Ankara Declaration was signed by significant leaders including Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, and Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. This agreement comes in the wake of strained Ethiopia-Somalia relations due to Ethiopia’s earlier memorandum with Somaliland, perceived by Somalia as a violation of territorial sovereignty. The Declaration seeks to advance cooperation, aiming for mutual respect and understanding between the nations. It has garnered support from prominent regional and international bodies, including the African Union and Western governments, further emphasizing its significance in stabilizing the Horn of Africa.

The discussions between Ethiopia and Somalia mark a pivotal moment in their diplomatic relationship, highlighting a concerted effort to resolve previous tensions and work collaboratively toward sustainable peace. The reaffirmation of commitments outlined in the Ankara Agreement demonstrates a mutual desire for stability and cooperation. As both nations prioritize bilateral relations, this partnership may yield significant benefits for the region as they navigate ongoing challenges together.

Original Source: addisstandard.com