Saturday December 21, 2024
Jigjiga (HOL) – Ethiopia's House of People's Representatives Standing Committee for Foreign Affairs Deputy Chair, Fetih Mahdi, has commended the recent agreement between Somalia and Ethiopia to end a year-long diplomatic dispute.
The Turkey-brokered agreement is expected to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties between neighbouring nations. Fetih emphasized the critical role of constructive engagement in fostering mutual benefits.
"Ethiopia's steadfast commitment to peace and development is evident in this agreement, which underscores our country's leadership in fostering regional collaboration," Fetih Mahdi stated.
Professor Brook Hailu, a lecturer and researcher in political science and international relations at Addis Ababa University, underscored the broader regional implications of the Ankara Agreement.
"This agreement sets a strong foundation for peace and cooperation, demonstrating Ethiopia's recognition of Somalia's sovereignty and respect for the sacrifices both nations have made," Professor Hailu remarked.
The agreement comes after Ethiopia and Somalia resolved their bitter dispute over Addis Ababa's plans to construct a port in Somaliland, a breakaway republic that Somalia regards as part of its territory. The disagreement had strained relations since January, when Ethiopia signed a maritime deal with Somaliland.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan welcomed the "historic agreement," lauding its potential to eventually secure landlocked Ethiopia's access to the sea while respecting Somalia's territorial integrity.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud agreed to uphold each other's sovereignty, signaling a new chapter in regional diplomacy and cooperation.