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The Foreign Minister of Somalia, Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, reiterated the nation’s unwavering commitment to preserving its sovereignty following the breakdown of the second round of Turkish-mediated talks with Ethiopia. These discussions, which began in Ankara on Monday, were intended to resolve ongoing tensions between the two nations but have yet to yield a conclusive agreement.
Somalia Stands Firm on Sovereignty
In a joint press statement delivered alongside his Turkish and Ethiopian counterparts, Fiqi emphasized Somalia’s determination to safeguard its territorial integrity and national unity. “In this round of discussions, progress was made, and Somalia is committed to protecting its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and unity,” Fiqi stated. He acknowledged the challenges faced during the talks but remained optimistic about the future. “As we prepare for the third round of talks, we are hopeful that the momentum we have built will lead to a final solution,” he added.
Contentious Agreement with Somaliland
The central point of contention in the talks has been Ethiopia’s memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Somaliland, a self-declared independent region of Somalia. The MoU, signed in January, grants Ethiopia the lease of a parcel of land along the Red Sea from authorities in Hargeisa, the capital of Somaliland. Somalia’s representatives at the talks have demanded that Addis Ababa retract this agreement, viewing it as a direct violation of Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Despite Somalia’s firm stance, Ethiopia has shown no willingness to abandon the deal, which it considers strategically important. The MoU has been a major stumbling block in the negotiations, with both sides struggling to find common ground.
Looking Ahead to the Third Round of Talks Between Somalia and Ethiopia
The Turkish Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan, announced that the third round of talks is scheduled to take place on September 17. Both Somalia and Ethiopia will return to the negotiating table, with Turkey continuing to mediate in hopes of fostering a diplomatic resolution to the ongoing dispute.
As the two nations prepare for the next round of discussions, the international community will be watching closely, particularly given the strategic importance of the Horn of Africa. The outcome of these talks could have significant implications not only for Somalia and Ethiopia but also for the broader stability of the region.