Tuesday August 13, 2024
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan hosts his Ethiopian counterpart, Taye Atske Selassie, an Somalia's Ahmed Muallim Fiqi at the Turkish Foreign Ministry in Ankara in Aug. 13, 2024. — Turkish Foreign Ministry
ANKARA, Türkiye (HOL) — Ethiopia and Somalia have taken significant steps toward resolving their maritime dispute, with Turkey announcing "notable progress" in the talks it has been mediating between the two nations. The discussions, centred on Ethiopia's controversial agreement with Somaliland, have expanded in scope, raising hopes for a peaceful resolution to the tensions that have threatened regional stability.
Turkey has stepped in as the main mediator, with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan conducting shuttle diplomacy between the two sides. Despite multiple meetings, progress has been limited, and the atmosphere remains tense.
Fidan announced the progress on Tuesday after a second round of negotiations held in Ankara. The discussions have focused on Ethiopia's controversial agreement with Somaliland, a breakaway region that Somalia considers part of its territory. The deal, signed in January, involves Somaliland leasing a 20-kilometer (12-mile) stretch of coastline to Ethiopia for a naval base. In return, Ethiopia would recognize Somaliland's independence, a move Somalia has vehemently opposed.
Tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia have escalated since the signing of the agreement, with Somalia threatening military action to protect its sovereignty. Fidan, however, expressed optimism that a collaborative solution is within reach, highlighting the increased scope and depth of the discussions compared to the first round held in July.
During the talks, which Turkey has mediated since Monday, Ethiopian Foreign Minister Taye Atske Selassie emphasized Ethiopia's need for reliable access to the sea, given that it is the most populous landlocked country in the world with a population exceeding 120 million. Somalia's Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi reiterated Somalia's commitment to safeguarding its territorial integrity and sovereignty.
Fidan did not disclose specific details of the latest discussions but noted that Turkey had proposed an arrangement allowing Ethiopia sea access via Somalia, contingent on Ethiopia recognizing Somalia's territorial sovereignty.
Former Somali Prime Minister Omar Abdirashid Ali Sharmarke has called on Somalia to reject any deal allowing Ethiopia to establish a military presence in Somali waters, reflecting broader concerns within Somalia's political circles.
Turkey, which has established strong ties with both Somalia and Ethiopia, continues to play a crucial role in mediating the dispute. The country has signed multiple agreements with Somalia, particularly in the defence and energy sectors, and maintains significant economic and trade relationships with Ethiopia.
The next round of negotiations is scheduled for September 17 in Ankara, with both sides expressing hope that the momentum from the recent talks will lead to a final resolution.