Ethiopia and Somalia have agreed to hold technical talks in February 2025 to address tensions over Somaliland, the self-declared independent region of Somalia. The discussions, facilitated by Turkey, aim to resolve disputes stemming from Ethiopia’s recent agreement with Somaliland, which included the leasing of land for a marine base in exchange for recognizing Somaliland’s independence.
Somalia has vehemently opposed Ethiopia’s actions, arguing that they infringe on its territorial sovereignty. Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud called the deal “unacceptable,” asserting that any negotiations on Somaliland must involve the Somali government. Ethiopia, on the other hand, sees the agreement as critical to its strategic need for sea access.
The upcoming talks will focus on balancing Ethiopia’s maritime ambitions with Somalia’s sovereignty concerns. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who announced the negotiations, expressed optimism about finding a peaceful resolution. “This is an opportunity for regional cooperation and mutual understanding,” he stated.
The dispute underscores the complexities of geopolitics in the Horn of Africa, where issues of sovereignty, trade, and security often intersect. Analysts believe that successful negotiations could set a precedent for resolving other regional conflicts while strengthening ties between Ethiopia and Somalia. –
Somaliland Disputes
