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On December 24, Ethiopian intelligence chief Redwan Hussien met with his Somali counterpart Abdullahi Mohamed Ali in Addis Ababa to further strengthen security cooperation following the Ankara Declaration. This agreement, brokered by Türkiye, was signed earlier this month and marks a significant turning point in the relations between the two Horn of Africa nations.
The high-level meeting was designed to reinforce commitments made under the Ankara Declaration, focusing on joint security challenges and the need for greater cooperation in maintaining peace and stability in the region. Hussien and Ali discussed strategies to combat external and internal threats that might hinder the progress outlined in the deal.
Ankara Declaration: A Turning Point in Relations
The Ankara Declaration, signed on December 12, represents a crucial moment in the diplomatic relationship between Ethiopia and Somalia. The pact, which was facilitated by Türkiye, comes after a period of strained ties between the two nations, particularly due to Ethiopia’s deal with Somaliland, a breakaway Somali region. This agreement caused tension over the use of the Berbera port in the Red Sea, which Somalia considers part of its sovereign territory.
Türkiye’s mediation role in resolving this dispute has been pivotal in calming tensions and fostering renewed trust between Ethiopia and Somalia. Both countries have committed to respecting each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, a sentiment that was emphasized in a joint statement released after the meeting.
Key Discussions: Strengthening Regional Security
The December 24 meeting was aimed at addressing the mutual security challenges facing the two nations. The Somali delegation, led by Foreign Minister Ali Omar, also arrived in Addis Ababa to participate in the discussions. The Somali leadership, along with their Ethiopian counterparts, reiterated their commitment to the principles outlined in the Ankara Declaration, with a particular focus on countering threats from adversaries both within and outside the region.
During his statement, Hussien stressed the importance of unity and cooperation, declaring, “As a follow-up to the Ankara Declaration, we both vowed to move forward and keep detractors from near and afar who are bent on derailment at bay.” This reflects a strong commitment from both countries to not only advance their bilateral relationship but also to ensure that external forces do not disrupt the peace efforts.
Diplomatic and Security Implications for the Horn of Africa
The continued cooperation between Ethiopia and Somalia has significant implications for the broader Horn of Africa region. With Türkiye’s active mediation and support, both countries are now poised to enhance their security coordination. This is crucial for combating terrorism, piracy, and other security threats that have plagued the region for years.
The Ankara Declaration also serves as a model for how regional disputes can be resolved through diplomacy and cooperation. By focusing on mutual respect and security, Ethiopia and Somalia aim to build a framework that will promote long-term stability and peace in the Horn of Africa.
Conclusion: A New Era of Cooperation
The meeting between the intelligence chiefs of Ethiopia and Somalia marks the next step in what could become a new era of cooperation in the region. As both nations work together to address shared security concerns, the role of Türkiye as a mediator remains central. With the commitment shown by both sides, the region is set to benefit from greater stability and stronger diplomatic ties.
The Ethiopian-Somali partnership, underpinned by the Ankara Declaration, not only holds promise for the two countries but also offers hope for the entire Horn of Africa.