Somalia, Ethiopia Reach Historic Deal to Resolve Maritime Dispute, Aided by Turkey

Somalia and Ethiopia have signed a joint declaration aimed at resolving their long-standing dispute over maritime access and the breakaway Somaliland region, Al Jazeera reports, citing Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

The agreement, hailed as a “historic reconciliation” by Erdoğan, marks a significant breakthrough in relations between the two Horn of Africa nations.

The deal, brokered by Turkey, focuses on future cooperation rather than dwelling on past disagreements. It addresses Ethiopia’s desire for secure and sustainable access to the sea, a critical need for the landlocked nation. Erdoğan stated his belief that Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud would provide the necessary support for Ethiopia’s maritime access.

Tensions had escalated significantly earlier this year after Ethiopia reportedly struck a deal with Somaliland – a self-declared independent region not recognized internationally – to lease a section of its coastline for a port and military base. Somalia vehemently opposed this agreement, viewing it as a violation of its sovereignty and triggering a diplomatic and military standoff that involved regional powers like Egypt and Eritrea.

The agreement reached in Ankara outlines a plan for technical talks to begin by the end of February, with a goal of completion within four months. Any remaining differences will be addressed through dialogue, with Turkey offering support. The declaration emphasizes a commitment to leaving past disagreements behind and moving forward with collaborative efforts to achieve mutual prosperity.

Both Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed of Ethiopia and President Mohamud of Somalia expressed satisfaction with the outcome. Abiy stated that misunderstandings from the past year had been addressed, while Mohamud emphasized that the agreement had halted their differences and that Somalia was prepared to work collaboratively with Ethiopia.

Turkey has played a significant mediating role since July, facilitating discussions between the two countries in an effort to de-escalate tensions and pave the way for a peaceful resolution.