Ethiopia and Somalia Sign Historic Agreement

In a significant breakthrough mediated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Ethiopia and Somalia have reached a joint declaration aimed at resolving their longstanding disputes, particularly regarding access to the sea for landlocked Ethiopia and tensions surrounding the breakaway Somaliland region. The agreement emerged after extensive talks between Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, which Erdogan described as a 'historic reconciliation'. Both leaders committed to cooperation and dialogue moving forward, emphasizing the importance of respecting Somalia's territorial integrity while addressing Ethiopia's maritime needs. This accord follows a year of escalating tensions triggered by Ethiopia's controversial deal with Somaliland to establish a military base in exchange for recognition, a move that Somalia condemned. Erdogan expressed confidence that this agreement would lay the foundation for peace and mutual prosperity in the Horn of Africa. The negotiations are set to continue with technical talks beginning in February 2025.