Ethiopia and Somalia agree to end bitter dispute over Addis Ababa’s plans to build a port in Somaliland, marking a significant step towards improving relations between the two Horn of Africa neighbours.
Ethiopia and Somalia Agree to End Bitter Dispute Over Somaliland Port
A historic agreement has been reached between Ethiopia and Somalia to end their bitter dispute over Addis Ababa’s plans to build a port in the breakaway republic of Somaliland. The deal, announced on Wednesday night in Ankara, Turkey, marks a significant step towards improving relations between the two Horn of Africa neighbours.
The Origins of the Dispute
The feud began on New Year’s Day when Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed signed a controversial deal with Somaliland to lease a 20km section of its coastline for 50 years to set up a naval base. The move was met with opposition from Somalia, which considers Somaliland as part of its territory.
Key Terms of the Agreement
Under the agreement, Ethiopia and Somalia have agreed to respect each other’s sovereignty. The two countries will reconvene in February to hold “technical talks” aimed at reaching mutually beneficial commercial arrangements that would ensure Ethiopia’s access to the sea under Somali control. Additionally, Somaliland has agreed to review its maritime deal with Ethiopia.
Turkish Mediation and Geopolitical Significance
Turkey played a crucial role in mediating the dispute, with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan welcoming the agreement as “the first step towards a new beginning”. Turkey’s close economic ties with Addis Ababa and security deals with Mogadishu have made it an important geopolitical player in the Horn of Africa.
Implications for Regional Stability
The agreement marks a significant improvement in relations between Ethiopia and Somalia, which had been at loggerheads since January. The deal also comes as Egypt has been backing Somalia due to its anger with Ethiopia over building a dam on the River Nile. With this development, there is hope that regional tensions can be eased.
Next Steps
The two countries will strive to reach “mutually beneficial commercial arrangements” in the interim, ensuring Ethiopia’s access to the sea under Somali control. The agreement paves the way for a new era of cooperation and understanding between Ethiopia and Somalia, with Turkey playing a key role in facilitating this process.
