Ethiopia and Somalia move closer to resolving Somaliland dispute
Ethiopia and Somalia have made “notable progress” in resolving a dispute sparked by Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland, a breakaway region that Somalia claims as its own.
The dispute centers on a controversial deal in which Somaliland would lease a portion of its coastline to Ethiopia for the establishment of a marine force base, in exchange for Ethiopia potentially recognising Somaliland’s independence.
The deal, agreed in January, has heightened tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia, with Somalia viewing it as a violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Somalia, which considers Somaliland part of its territory, has strongly opposed the agreement and has even suggested that it is prepared to take drastic measures to defend its claims.
In response to the growing tensions, Turkey has stepped in as a mediator, hosting talks between the two nations to find a peaceful resolution.
"I am pleased to announce that the number and extent of issues we discussed, has increased significantly, compared to the first round," Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said in a video message on Tuesday.
Fidan said both sides had shown a willingness to engage on the technical details of the dispute.
“We believe that a collaborative and constructive solution is within reach," he said.
Fidan, who has held meetings with his Ethiopian counterpart, Taye Atske Selassie, and Somalia’s Foreign Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi since Monday, did not provide details on the discussions.
Read more on RFI English
Read also:
With Somalia naval deal, Turkey steers into strategic but volatile region
Turkey's Erdogan visits famine-hit Somalia in Islamic aid push
Somalia firing squad executes al-Shebab members for nurse's murder
