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Diplomatic relations between Somalia and Ethiopia are showing signs of significant improvement following a Turkey-brokered agreement that could see Ethiopia rejoin a multinational peacekeeping mission in Somalia. The thaw in tensions comes after a prolonged dispute over Ethiopia’s recognition of Somaliland in exchange for port access.
Ethiopian Defense Minister Visits Mogadishu
Ethiopian Defense Minister Aisha Mohammed Mussa traveled to Mogadishu on January 2, 2025, for discussions regarding Ethiopia’s participation in the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission (AUSSOM). The talks were confirmed by Somali Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ali Balcad.
Balcad highlighted that the diplomatic progress was a direct result of the Ankara Declaration, which resolved the primary disputes between the neighboring nations. “Given that the contentious issues between Somalia and Ethiopia have been resolved through the Ankara Declaration, Somalia is ready to reconsider the inclusion of the Ethiopian National Defense Force in the upcoming AUSSOM mission,” Balcad stated.
Background of the Dispute
The year-long tension between Somalia and Ethiopia began when Ethiopia offered to recognize Somaliland, a self-declared independent region in northern Somalia, in exchange for port access. This offer was met with strong opposition from the Somali government, which views Somaliland as part of its sovereign territory.
Ethiopia’s historical involvement in Somalia’s peacekeeping efforts has been significant, particularly in the fight against the al-Qaeda-affiliated group, al-Shabaab. However, Somalia had moved to exclude Ethiopian troops from the mission due to the diplomatic rift.
Turkey’s Role in Mediation
Turkey played a pivotal role in bringing the two nations back to the negotiation table. The Ankara-brokered deal has been widely praised for averting a potential escalation of hostilities between Somalia and Ethiopia, which could have destabilized the Horn of Africa region.
The Ankara Declaration now opens the door for Ethiopia’s re-entry into the peacekeeping mission, aligning both countries on mutual security interests.
Ethiopia’s Peacekeeping Contribution
Ethiopia has been a crucial player in Somalia’s security landscape, participating in international efforts to combat extremist threats since the early 2000s. Ethiopian forces were instrumental in pushing back al-Shabaab advances, particularly in border regions.
Diplomats previously warned that Ethiopia’s exclusion from AUSSOM could weaken regional stability, as the country has been a frequent target of cross-border attacks by al-Shabaab.
UN Security Council Renewal and Challenges
On December 27, 2024, the United Nations Security Council renewed the mandate for the AUSSOM peacekeeping force but did not secure a long-term financial framework to sustain operations. This financial gap remains a critical challenge for maintaining effective operations on the ground.
A Mogadishu-based think tank, Balqiis Insights, recently released a report highlighting the importance of Ethiopia’s continued participation in the mission. It emphasized the need for sustainable funding and regional cooperation to ensure long-term success in stabilizing Somalia.
Moving Toward Regional Stability
The reconciliation between Somalia and Ethiopia marks a positive development for regional peace and security. Both countries have faced significant challenges related to terrorism, border disputes, and economic instability.
By allowing Ethiopia back into the peacekeeping framework, Somalia is not only prioritizing its national security but also recognizing the importance of collaborative regional defense strategies against extremist threats.
Conclusionl
The Turkey-brokered Ankara Declaration has effectively eased tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia, paving the way for renewed cooperation in the fight against terrorism in the Horn of Africa. The ongoing diplomatic efforts underscore the importance of regional collaboration in ensuring long-term stability and security in East Africa.