Ethiopia and Somalia reached a significant agreement on Wednesday, deciding to initiate technical discussions to resolve their disagreements over a contentious port deal involving Somaliland.
This development followed high-level meetings mediated by Turkey in its capital, Ankara.
Turkey Mediates Between Ethiopia and Somalia
Tensions had flared earlier this year when Ethiopia signed a memorandum of understanding with Somaliland in January, aiming to lease land for a marine force base along the Somaliland coastline. 
In exchange, Ethiopia pledged to recognize Somaliland’s independence—a move that Somalia strongly opposed, citing threats to its sovereignty.
In a joint declaration facilitated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Somali President Hassan Sheik Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed agreed to respect Somalia’s territorial integrity during negotiations.
Erdogan stated, “By overcoming some resentments and misunderstandings, we have taken the first step toward a new beginning based on peace and cooperation between Somalia and Ethiopia.”
Ethiopia’s Push for Reliable Sea Access
Ethiopia, the world’s most populous landlocked country with over 120 million people, has long sought secure sea access to boost its economic growth and trade. The agreement acknowledges Ethiopia’s aspirations while emphasizing the sovereignty of Somalia over its territories.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed expressed optimism, stating, “Ethiopia’s aspiration for secure access to the sea is a peaceful venture and one that would benefit all our neighbors.”
Somalia’s Concerns Over Somaliland’s Autonomy
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia more than three decades ago but remains unrecognized by the African Union or the United Nations.
Despite its stable political environment, Somaliland’s push for international recognition contrasts with Somalia’s ongoing security struggles against militant groups like al-Shabab.
Somali President Hassan Sheik Mohamud underscored the need for cooperation, noting, “The Horn of Africa is a very fragile and volatile region, which needs both Ethiopia and Somalia to work together in mutual benefit.”
Agreement Timelines and Next Steps
The declaration outlined a timeline for talks to begin by February 2025, with a four-month window to reach a resolution. Both nations agreed to explore mutually advantageous commercial arrangements, granting Ethiopia secure and sustainable sea access under Somalia’s authority.
This agreement marks a pivotal moment for regional stability in the Horn of Africa, as both nations move forward with a commitment to peace and collaboration.
Turkey’s Expanding Role in the Horn of Africa
Turkey has solidified its influence in the region through defense, trade, and energy agreements with both Somalia and Ethiopia. Erdogan emphasized the importance of the declaration in strengthening regional ties, adding, “The focus is on the future and not the past.”
As the technical talks approach, regional and international stakeholders will closely monitor how Ethiopia and Somalia navigate these complex negotiations while maintaining their commitment to peace and mutual benefit.
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