Ethiopia and Somalia have put an end to their diplomatic standoff, easing tensions that have gripped the Horn of Africa. According to Somalia’s foreign minister, the dispute was resolved without Somalia making any concessions. Ethiopia, while remaining silent on this claim, confirmed the two countries have agreed to “strengthen bilateral relations.”
The rift between the two nations started earlier in the year when Ethiopia signed a controversial maritime agreement with Somaliland, a breakaway region that Somalia views as part of its territory. The tension heightened when Ethiopia planned to build a naval base in Somaliland, a move seen as an affront to Somalia’s sovereignty.
However, the diplomatic climate has shifted, aided by mediation efforts from Turkey. In a significant breakthrough, Ethiopian Defence Minister Aisha Mohammed led a delegation to Somalia, signaling thawed relations. Their discussions centered on the future of the African Union peacekeeping mission in Somalia, where Ethiopian troops are stationed. Despite Somalia’s past threats to expel these forces, both sides agreed to cooperate on the mission moving forward.
The change in tone also extends to a broader recognition of sovereignty between the two nations, with a joint statement from Turkey outlining plans for further talks in February. While the specifics of Ethiopia’s deal with Somaliland remain unclear, the focus now is on fostering mutual respect and commercial collaboration, especially for Ethiopia’s access to the sea under Somalia’s sovereignty.
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