The recent signing of the Ankara Declaration between Ethiopia and Somalia has captured the attention and commendation of nations and international organizations alike. This groundbreaking agreement, finalized on December 11, 2024, under the auspices of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan of the Republic of Türkiye, represents a pivotal step forward for stability and development across the Horn of Africa.
The Declaration, endorsed by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, underscores the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of both nations while advancing a framework for collaboration on shared interests. It also holds the promise of addressing long-standing challenges that have hindered regional progress, marking a significant shift toward mutual trust and cooperation.
The Ankara Declaration has been welcomed by key international stakeholders, including the United Nations, the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, Qatar, the UAE, and the European Union (EU). Statements from these nations and institutions highlight the importance of the agreement in fostering mutual respect, dialogue, and cooperation. For instance, the U.S. Department of State emphasized the need for ongoing dialogue and cooperation, particularly in combating al-Shabaab and advancing economic ties. Similarly, the EU underscored its commitment to supporting the unity and sovereignty of Ethiopia and Somalia while recognizing Türkiye’s instrumental role in brokering the agreement.
Among the many critical aspects of the agreement, the United States has expressed hope for technical negotiations that would enable Ethiopia to secure reliable and sustainable access to the sea. Such an outcome would be a game-changer for Ethiopia, offering the landlocked nation a pathway to enhance trade and economic growth while respecting Somalia’s territorial integrity. This balanced approach to addressing contentious issues demonstrates the maturity and pragmatism of the negotiations.
Security cooperation is another cornerstone of the Ankara Declaration. The fight against al-Shabaab, a mutual threat to both nations and the broader region, requires concerted efforts. Enhanced collaboration on intelligence sharing, coordinated military actions, and community-focused counter-extremism initiatives can significantly weaken the group’s influence and create a more secure environment for citizens.
The successful mediation by Türkiye highlights the importance of neutral, committed facilitators in resolving regional disputes. The Declaration stands as a testament to the power of diplomacy, providing a blueprint for conflict resolution in the Horn of Africa and beyond. The involvement of IGAD, the African Union Commission (AUC), and the EU further demonstrates the value of multilateral engagement in fostering sustainable peace and development.
While the Declaration has laid a strong foundation, its success will depend on the sustained commitment of Ethiopia and Somalia to its principles. Implementing the agreement’s provisions—whether related to economic integration, territorial integrity, or security—requires vigilance, goodwill, and constructive engagement.
The international community’s readiness to support Ethiopia and Somalia in this endeavor is evident. As noted by the EU, ongoing mediation efforts and technical support will be crucial in translating the Declaration’s promises into tangible outcomes. This collaborative approach ensures that the vision of a stable, prosperous Horn of Africa becomes a shared reality.
The Declaration is more than just an agreement—it is a symbol of hope and a catalyst for change. By reaffirming their commitment to sovereignty, unity, and mutual interests, Ethiopia and Somalia have set a precedent for addressing regional challenges through dialogue and cooperation. As the world watches, this historic accord could very well be the turning point for a region long marked by adversity, steering it toward a future of peace, stability, and shared prosperity.
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 14 DECEMBER 2024
