Diplomacy/ Ethiopia and Somalia resolve diplomatic Dispute, Pave way for regional cooperation

Ethiopia and Somalia have resolved their longstanding diplomatic dispute, signaling a new chapter in their regional relationship, Somalia’s Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi announced. The breakthrough follows Turkey’s mediation and a joint declaration in Ankara last month.

The conflict arose in January 2024 when Ethiopia signed a maritime agreement with Somaliland, a region seeking independence from Somalia.

Somalia viewed the deal as a violation of its sovereignty, straining ties and escalating regional tensions. Ethiopia had also faced criticism for plans to build a naval base in Somaliland, fueling speculation of formal recognition of the breakaway region.

A recent Ethiopian delegation, led by Defence Minister Aisha Mohammed, visited Mogadishu, focusing on the African Union peacekeeping mission in Somalia and broader bilateral cooperation. Ethiopia, which maintains thousands of troops in Somalia, pledged to collaborate on security efforts.

Under the Ankara declaration, both nations committed to technical talks in February and agreed on Somalia’s sovereignty over Ethiopia’s access to the sea.

Somali state TV quoted Fiqi emphasizing that no concessions were made in the resolution process.

While Ethiopia has not commented on whether it will abandon its deal with Somaliland, the current détente reflects a significant diplomatic achievement. Regional stability now hinges on successful implementation of their agreements and future collaboration.