Ethiopia’s long-standing quest for secure and reliable sea access has recently garnered significant international attention. Following the signing of a sea access lease agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland, various regional and international actors have sought to influence the situation. This agreement has also strained relations between Ethiopia and Somalia.
However, recent diplomatic efforts have yielded positive outcomes. Both countries have taken steps to de-escalate tensions and explore avenues for mutual benefit. Notably, the “Ankara Agreement,” brokered by Turkey, provides a framework for Ethiopia to secure sea access through Somalia.
This agreement underscores the critical importance of sea access for Ethiopia’s economic development and its growing global integration. During a recent state visit to Ethiopia, French President Emmanuel Macron also expressed his support for Ethiopia’s efforts to secure reliable and sustainable access to the sea.
During joint statement by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and French President Emmanuel Macron, Abiy emphasized the need for strong support from friendly nations like France to help Ethiopia, a country of 130 million with a rapidly growing economy, gain access to the sea through peaceful and diplomatic means. President Macron expressed his willingness to support Ethiopia’s request.
Prime Minister Abiy conveyed his deep gratitude to President Macron for accepting Ethiopia’s request for sea access, noting that the Ethiopian people and government are looking for tangible results from France on this matter. In response, President Macron affirmed the legitimacy of Ethiopia’s request for a seaport, pledging that France would do everything possible to facilitate a positive outcome.
Macron underscored the importance of addressing the request through dialogue, in a manner that respects international law and the interests of neighboring countries, while also benefiting Ethiopia and the broader region. He also expressed support for Prime Minister Abiy’s ongoing peace talks with the Somali president in Turkey.
Following the Ankara Agreement, Ethiopia has reaffirmed its readiness to fully implement the pact aimed at resolving recent disputes with Somalia. Ambassador Mesganu Arga, the State Minister of Foreign Affairs, emphasized Ethiopia’s commitment during his yesterday meeting with a high-level Somali delegation.
The delegation, led by Somalia’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ali Omar, is currently on a working visit to Addis Ababa. This visit marks a significant step in enhancing bilateral relations, which have been shaped by the Ankara Agreement, originally signed on December 2, 2017 E.C, under the auspices of Turkey. The agreement was formally endorsed by Ethiopian Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.
During the discussions, Ambassador Mesganu Arga highlighted the importance of this visit, noting that it is the first of its kind since the signing of the Ankara Agreement. He expressed optimism about the dialogue, stating, “We will continue to hold discussions to strengthen the relations between our two countries by implementing the Ankara Agreement.” Mesganu further underscored the interconnectedness of peace in Somalia and Ethiopia, asserting, “The peace of Somalia is the peace of Ethiopia. Our cooperation will continue to strengthen to prevent terrorism and establish peace in the region.”
State Minister Ali Omar echoed these sentiments, describing the discussions as fruitful and productive. He acknowledged the significance of this visit, stating, “This is my first visit since the Ankara Agreement, and we have held important discussions to advance its implementation.”
Both sides expressed a unified vision for the future, emphasizing the necessity of collaboration to enhance security and stability in the Horn of Africa. The ongoing dialogue reflects a mutual commitment to fostering a peaceful and cooperative relationship, which is critical for regional development and security.
Ethiopia is expressing a strong commitment to collaborate with its neighboring countries, emphasizing that its intentions do not involve waging war or undermining their sovereignty, contrary to claims made by some of its adversaries. Instead, Ethiopia aims to play an indispensable role in pacifying the region, especially during challenging times faced by its neighbors.
Dareskedar Taye (PhD), Director General of American and European Affairs at the Institute of Foreign Affairs, highlighted this perspective during an interview with the Ethiopian Press Agency (EPA). He urged neighboring nations to adopt a common mindset and work together on shared issues, noting the historical climate of suspicion and hostility that has often characterized regional relations. “Ethiopia is changing this narrative,” he stated, advocating for cooperation on mutual concerns.
Dareskedar pointed out the deep-rooted people-to-people connections and shared identities among Ethiopia and its neighbors, underscoring the potential for collaborative efforts to strengthen these ties. He expressed optimism that a reciprocal interest from other countries would enhance regional stability.
The Ethiopian government, according to Dareskedar, is actively pursuing initiatives that promote peace and cooperation. “When necessary, we take measures to isolate ourselves,” he explained, highlighting the importance of proactive engagement in fostering positive relationships.
Ethiopia’s role in promoting regional peace, particularly in South Sudan, serves as a testament to its commitment to stability. “Our success relies on both Ethiopia’s interests and those of our neighbors,” He remarked, emphasizing Ethiopia’s influential role in fostering peace in the region.
Furthermore, Dareskedar noted Ethiopia’s ongoing efforts to mediate conflicts in other neighboring countries, including Sudan. “Despite the influx of various actors claiming to bring peace to Sudan, Ethiopia continues to play a significant role,” he said, acknowledging that competing interests have complicated peace efforts in the region.
In conclusion, he reaffirmed Ethiopia’s dedication to facilitating peace and resolving conflicts through mediation, both with its neighbors and within its own borders. He reiterated the country’s readiness to collaborate on peace initiatives and address other pressing issues, signaling a hopeful vision for regional cooperation and stability.
Ethiopia’s need for sea access is driven by its burgeoning population and expanding economy. As one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies, the demand for imports and exports continues to surge. Moreover, securing maritime access aligns with Ethiopia’s broader vision of regional integration and cooperation. By fostering peaceful relations with its neighbors through mutually beneficial agreements, Ethiopia aims to create a stable environment conducive to growth not only within its borders but across the Horn of Africa.
Overall, while the path to obtaining sea access may not be “a bed of roses,” as challenges persist in this endeavor, Ethiopia remains committed to overcoming them. Rain or shine, the country’s leadership recognizes that achieving this goal is vital for meeting the needs of its people and realizing its economic aspirations in an increasingly interconnected world.
BY EYUEL KIFLU
The Ethiopian Herald December 25/2024
