Ethiopia and Somalia Agree to Restore Bilateral Relations

Ethiopia and Somalia Agree to Restore Bilateral Relations PM Abiy Ahmed and President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud Meet in Addis Ababa January 3/2017 (Ahadu Radio) Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud met today, January 3, 2017, in Addis Ababa for bilateral consultations. Following the improvement in diplomatic relations between the two countries in accordance with the Ankara Agreement; the Somali President arrived in Addis Ababa this afternoon for an official visit; Prime Minister Abiy welcomed the President at Bole International Airport. “I would like to inform you that the President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, has come to Ethiopia for an official visit,” he said in a post on his social media page. Following this, the two leaders discussed common issues and issued a joint statement after the discussion. In their statement, it was noted that the leaders held a constructive discussion to strengthen the brotherhood and relations between the peoples of the two countries, as well as; the need for strong cooperation based on mutual trust, confidence and respect for regional stability. It was also stated that they agreed to restore bilateral relations and ensure full diplomatic representation in their respective cities; and agreed to work together to improve regional relations, create mutual understanding and promote common development. They also stressed the importance of strengthening economic cooperation, trade and investment between the two countries. The discussions highlighted the need for Ethiopia and Somalia to continue to work together to strengthen their security and stability cooperation; the joint statement also noted that they discussed the growing threat posed by militant groups in the region. The leaders of the two countries agreed to strengthen their cooperation in regional peace and stability by providing guidance to their security institutions. The countries also agreed to establish strong economic cooperation, expand infrastructure that will facilitate trade and ensure mutual prosperity. The leaders expressed their commitment to the implementation of the Ankara Agreement; they noted that the agreement was born from the spirit of friendship and partnership between the countries. The joint statement indicated that they agreed to expedite the start of technical negotiations as stipulated in the agreement. They reaffirmed their commitment to the Ankara agreement in a spirit of friendship and partnership; and agreed to expedite the start of technical negotiations as stipulated in the agreement.

Somalia’s President to Visit Addis Ababa Tomorrow, Marking First Trip Since Ankara Agreement

Somalia’s President to Visit Addis Ababa Tomorrow, Marking First Trip Since Ankara Agreement Addis Ababa, January 12, 2025 – Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is set to visit Addis Ababa tomorrow, marking his first official trip to Ethiopia since the signing of the Ankara Agreement in December 2024. This visit signals a thaw in diplomatic tensions between the two neighbors, following months of strained relations over Ethiopia’s controversial memorandum with Somaliland. The Ankara Agreement, brokered by Turkey, paved the way for renewed negotiations between Ethiopia and Somalia, particularly regarding Ethiopia’s access to the sea. The accord reaffirmed Somalia’s territorial integrity while opening the door for technical discussions on maritime cooperation. President Mohamud’s visit is expected to focus on strengthening bilateral relations, discussing regional security, and advancing economic cooperation. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed is likely to welcome the Somali leader, with high-level meetings planned to reinforce mutual trust and address lingering concerns. This visit is seen as a diplomatic breakthrough, marking a shift from recent hostilities to constructive engagement. Analysts believe that both nations recognize the strategic importance of collaboration for regional stability and development in the Horn of Africa. The visit also underscores Turkey’s growing role as a mediator in East African diplomacy, following its successful facilitation of the Ankara Agreement. More updates to follow as the visit unfolds.

Veteran Ethiopian Politician and Economist Bulcha Demeksa Passes Away at 94

Veteran Ethiopian Politician and Economist Bulcha Demeksa Passes Away at 94 Addis Ababa, January 6, 2025 — Ethiopia mourns the loss of Ato Bulcha Demeksa, a distinguished politician, economist, and businessman, who passed away on January 6, 2025, at the age of 94. Born in 1930 in Boji Birmeji District, Ginbi Zone, Demeksa was a pivotal figure in Ethiopia’s political and economic spheres, leaving a lasting legacy through his extensive career in public service and the private sector. Ato Bulcha Demeksa was born to Demeksa Senbeto and Nesise Sarda in the Boji Birmeji District of Ginbi Zone. His early life in Ethiopia was marked by a strong commitment to education and public service, values that would later define his professional and personal endeavors. While specific details about his educational background are limited, his appointment as Vice-Minister of Finance in 1967 indicates a solid foundation in economics and governance. Bulcha Demeksa’s public service career began in earnest in 1967 when he was appointed Vice-Minister of Finance. In this role, he was instrumental in shaping Ethiopia’s financial policies during a period of significant economic development. His expertise and dedication earned him a position on the Board of the World Bank, where he represented Ethiopia and contributed to international economic strategies aimed at fostering growth and stability in developing nations. The Ethiopian Revolution of 1974 marked a turning point in Demeksa’s career. As political upheaval swept the nation, he chose to leave Ethiopia, seeking stability and continued professional engagement abroad. During his time away from Ethiopia, he was employed by the United Nations administration, where he furthered his commitment to international development and humanitarian efforts. After returning to Ethiopia in 1991, following the collapse of the Derg regime, Bulcha Demeksa played a crucial role in the transformation of Ethiopia’s financial system. In 1994, he founded the Awash International Bank, which quickly rose to prominence as one of Ethiopia’s leading financial institutions. Under his leadership, Awash Bank became known for its innovative banking solutions and commitment to economic development, contributing significantly to Ethiopia’s financial sector during a time of substantial economic transition. Demeksa’s tenure at Awash Bank was marked by strategic initiatives that promoted financial inclusion and stability. His vision for the bank emphasized not only profitability but also social responsibility, ensuring that the institution played a role in supporting the broader economic goals of the country. In early 2005, recognizing the need for a peaceful and democratic alternative to armed resistance, Bulcha Demeksa founded the Oromo Federalist Democratic Movement (OFDM). The OFDM was established as a non-military, democratic political party aimed at providing a platform for the Oromo people to advocate for their rights and interests within Ethiopia’s complex political landscape. Under his leadership, the OFDM grew to become one of Ethiopia’s largest opposition parties, promoting democratic principles and striving for a united and strong Ethiopia. Demeksa was a vocal critic of Prime Minister Meles Zenawi’s government, often highlighting issues related to governance, human rights, and electoral integrity. His outspoken stance made him a prominent figure in the opposition, frequently cited by international media as a key voice advocating for political pluralism and accountability in Ethiopia. In addition to his role with the OFDM, Demeksa was instrumental in the formation of Medrek, a larger opposition alliance that sought to unify various opposition groups to enhance their collective influence and effectiveness. Medrek aimed to foster a more inclusive and representative political environment, contributing to the ongoing discourse on governance and democracy in Ethiopia. In late 2010, Bulcha Demeksa resigned as the chairman of the OFDM, transitioning to an advisory role within the party’s leadership. Despite stepping down from the chairmanship, he remained actively involved in political discourse, continuing to critique government policies and the conduct of the 2010 elections. His critiques were widely covered by both Amharic and English media outlets, underscoring his persistent commitment to transparency and democratic processes in Ethiopia. In 2019, Demeksa announced his intention to run in the 2020 elections, demonstrating his enduring dedication to public service and his belief in the democratic process. Although the outcome of the 2020 elections is not detailed, his decision to participate reaffirmed his role as a steadfast advocate for political change and democratic governance. Bulcha Demeksa’s contributions to Ethiopia did not go unnoticed. In 2008, he was named “Person of the Year” by Jimma Times, the online successor to the Afan Oromo private Yeroo newspaper. This accolade recognized his significant work in the financial sector, his advocacy for human rights and democracy, and his efforts as a peace activist mediating between different factions within Ethiopian society. The award highlighted his multifaceted contributions to both economic development and social harmony in Ethiopia. Beyond his professional achievements, Bulcha Demeksa was known for his exemplary character and integrity. Colleagues and acquaintances often described him as a man of good character who dedicated his life to public service and the betterment of Ethiopia. He was also a devoted father, balancing his demanding career with his responsibilities to his family. His personal sacrifices and unwavering dedication to his family were as commendable as his public endeavors, earning him respect and admiration from those who knew him personally. The passing of Ato Bulcha Demeksa elicited an outpouring of grief and condolences from various quarters of Ethiopian society. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed expressed his sorrow, acknowledging Demeksa’s significant contributions to Ethiopia’s financial systems and political landscape. Mayor Adanech Abebe and numerous other senior government officials also extended their condolences, highlighting his role in fostering economic development and advocating for democratic principles. Internationally, organizations and leaders who had interacted with Demeksa over the years also recognized his contributions. His work with the World Bank and the United Nations had left a positive impact on international development efforts, further solidifying his reputation as a dedicated public servant and economist. Ato Bulcha Demeksa’s career spanned several decades during which Ethiopia underwent substantial political and economic changes. His efforts in both the public sector and as a businessman played a significant role in shaping the country’s development trajectory. As a leader of the OFDM and a key figure in opposition politics, he contributed to the ongoing discourse on governance, democracy, and the rights of Ethiopia’s diverse populations. Demeksa’s legacy includes the institutions he helped build, such as Awash International Bank, and the political movements he spearheaded, which continue to influence Ethiopia’s path toward unity and economic stability. His commitment to democratic principles and economic development serves as an enduring example for current and future generations of Ethiopian leaders and citizens. The death of Ato Bulcha Demeksa marks the end of an era for Ethiopian politics and business. His extensive career and unwavering dedication to both the financial sector and political activism left a lasting imprint on the nation’s development. As Ethiopia continues to navigate its future, Demeksa’s contributions will be remembered as integral to the country’s journey toward progress and unity.

Somalia Delegation Visits Addis Ababa to Reinforce Ankara Agreement

Somalia Delegation Visits Addis Ababa to Reinforce Ankara Agreement A delegation led by Somalia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ali Omar, arrived in Addis Ababa today, December 14, 2017. The visit aims to strengthen commitments outlined in the historic Ankara Agreement. In a statement released on its official X page, Somalia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that the visit seeks to “reinforce the commitments made in the Ankara Agreement.” The statement further highlighted that Somalia remains dedicated to enhancing bilateral relations with Ethiopia, as agreed upon during discussions held in Ankara under the auspices of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The Ankara Agreement: A Historic Step The Ankara Agreement, signed on December 2, 2017, by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, is seen as a landmark initiative aimed at fostering peace and cooperation in the Horn of Africa. President Erdoğan described the agreement as “historic” and expressed hope that it would pave the way for greater regional stability. The agreement includes provisions for Ethiopia to gain access to a “reliable, safe, and sustainable sea passage under Somalia’s sovereign authority.” This step is critical for Ethiopia, a landlocked nation, to secure a maritime outlet, which is vital for trade and economic development. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed underscored Ethiopia’s commitment to resolving disputes peacefully, stating, “Ethiopia’s desire to have a sea passage is a peaceful endeavor that benefits our neighbors as well. This desire should not be viewed with suspicion but in the spirit of cooperation.” Strengthening Regional Ties The delegation’s visit also aligns with broader efforts to bolster cooperation between Ethiopia and Somalia. Somalia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed the country’s dedication to fostering relationships with neighboring states based on sovereignty, mutual respect, and shared interests. The agreement signifies a willingness to leave behind past conflicts, including tensions stemming from Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland, which had heightened discord in the region. Both nations now prioritize constructive dialogue and mutual prosperity. Key Points of the Ankara Agreement Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity: Ethiopia and Somalia agreed to respect each other’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, adhering to international laws and norms set by the United Nations and the African Union. Constructive Partnership: Both nations committed to setting aside historical differences and working collaboratively for shared prosperity. Acknowledgment of Sacrifices: Somalia recognized the contributions of Ethiopian soldiers deployed under the African Union mission. Reliable Maritime Access: Ethiopia’s need for sea access was acknowledged, with Somalia ensuring this access under its sovereign authority. Technical Negotiations: Both countries agreed to negotiate technical aspects, starting in February and concluding within four months, with Turkey acting as a facilitator. Peaceful Dispute Resolution: Turkey’s support in mediating any disputes related to the agreement was formally accepted. Regional Implications French President Emmanuel Macron recently voiced support for Ethiopia’s efforts to secure a maritime gateway through dialogue and adherence to international law during his visit to Addis Ababa. These developments reflect growing international interest in the Horn of Africa’s stability and economic potential. The Ankara Agreement’s successful implementation could serve as a model for resolving regional conflicts and fostering economic cooperation, signaling a new chapter for Ethiopia and Somalia. As Ethiopia and Somalia move forward, their commitment to dialogue, respect, and mutual benefit is expected to strengthen ties not only between the two nations but also across the region, promoting peace and shared prosperity in the Horn of Africa.

French President Macron Arrives in Ethiopia

French President Macron Arrives in Ethiopia French President Emmanuel Macron has arrived in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, moments ago on an official working visit. Upon his arrival at Bole International Airport, he was warmly received by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD). Before coming to Addis Ababa, Macron made a working visit to neighboring Djibouti. Photo: Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) welcomes French President Emmanuel Macron, who is visiting Ethiopia for the second time. The Prime Minister referred to Macron as “my brother and a dear friend of Ethiopia.” “The relationship between our two countries continues to grow stronger,” said Prime Minister Abiy (PhD), expressing confidence that President Macron’s visit will result in fruitful discussions. To mark his arrival, billboards along major roads in Addis Ababa displayed messages reading, “President Macron, welcome to Ethiopia.” This is Macron’s second working visit to Ethiopia in six years since Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) assumed office.

U.S. Urges Ethiopia to Remove Implicated Officials—Ambassador Beth Van Schaack Calls for Accountability

U.S. Urges Ethiopia to Remove Implicated Officials—Ambassador Beth Van Schaack Calls for Accountability In a recent press briefing organized by the U.S. Department of State’s Africa Regional Media Hub, Ambassador Beth Van Schaack, the U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for Global Criminal Justice, discussed Ethiopia’s ongoing efforts to establish a transitional justice framework. The briefing focused on Ethiopia’s potential to address historical grievances and ongoing challenges. Transitional Justice: A Victim-Centered Approach Ambassador Van Schaack emphasized the importance of justice processes tailored to the unique experiences and needs of affected communities. During her visit to Addis Ababa, she engaged with governmental actors, civil society organizations, and international experts to discuss Ethiopia’s emerging transitional justice initiatives. Central to these discussions was Ethiopia’s effort to draft and implement five pieces of legislation addressing accountability, truth-telling, institutional reforms, and reparations. The Ambassador acknowledged the Ethiopian government’s willingness to incorporate international feedback on these drafts. “Every survivor and every community has different needs, which is why it’s essential that their voices be a part of the process,” said Van Schaack. She highlighted the role of transitional justice in fostering peace and stability through transparent and inclusive mechanisms. Lessons from Africa and Beyond The Ambassador’s visit also included participation in a conference at the African Union, where youth leaders and transitional justice experts from across Africa shared insights. Participants from The Gambia presented lessons from their Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparations Commission (TRRC), which combined public truth-telling with plans for a hybrid court to address atrocities under the Jammeh regime. South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) was also referenced as an example of long-term efforts to reconcile and reform institutions after apartheid. Ethiopia’s journey, similarly, will require sustained commitment to ensure justice mechanisms are effectively implemented. Ethiopia: Progress Amid Challenges Ethiopia’s transitional justice process is rooted in the aftermath of recent conflicts, particularly in the Tigray, Amhara, and Oromia regions. The 2022 Cessation of Hostilities Agreement included a commitment to transitional justice. However, concerns remain regarding civic space limitations and reports of ongoing violence. Van Schaack noted that comprehensive justice efforts depend on resolving these challenges. She called for measures such as removing individuals implicated in abuses from positions of power and publicly acknowledging past atrocities. These actions, she suggested, would strengthen the credibility of Ethiopia’s transitional justice process. External experts from Colombia and South Africa have contributed perspectives on truth-telling, accountability, and reparations. Van Schaack cited Colombia’s holistic approach to transitional justice as particularly relevant to Ethiopia’s context. International Support and Future Prospects Ambassador Van Schaack’s remarks highlighted the growing role of African nations in advancing transitional justice. The international community, including the United States, has expressed readiness to support Ethiopia’s efforts, provided the process remains transparent and inclusive. Ethiopia faces the dual challenge of addressing past atrocities while fostering lasting peace and justice. The success of its transitional justice process could set a precedent for other nations grappling with similar issues. As Ethiopia continues on this path, the global community will be observing its progress toward accountability, reconciliation, and sustainable peace.

President Erdoğan to Undertake Working Visit to Ethiopia and Somalia in 2025 Following Historic Agreement

President Erdoğan to Undertake Working Visit to Ethiopia and Somalia in 2025 Following Historic Agreement Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan is set to undertake a working visit to Ethiopia and Somalia in the first months of 2025. The visit follows a breakthrough hailed as a “historic agreement” between Ethiopia and Somalia, brokered by President Erdoğan, which resolved a year-long diplomatic feud between the two nations. The agreement, reached after eight hours of intensive talks in Ankara, is expected to pave the way for renewed peace and cooperation in the Horn of Africa. Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud arrived in Ankara for the third round of Turkish-mediated talks, following unsuccessful negotiations in July and October. Addressing a joint press conference, President Erdoğan described the deal as a significant step toward a new chapter of collaboration between Ethiopia and Somalia. “This agreement marks the beginning of a new era based on mutual understanding and shared goals,” Erdoğan stated. He expressed confidence that the accord would resolve Ethiopia’s need for access to the sea while respecting Somalia’s sovereignty. The conflict, which stemmed from Ethiopia’s controversial deal with Somaliland—a breakaway region of Somalia—over a coastal port and military base, had escalated tensions in the region. The agreement aims to address Ethiopia’s desire for “safe and reliable access to the sea,” a long-standing issue for the landlocked country. Prime Minister Abiy emphasized the importance of the deal for Ethiopia’s regional development, noting, “This will benefit not only Ethiopia but also our neighbors and the region at large.” Somali President Mohamud also welcomed the deal, calling it a resolution to their differences and reaffirming Somalia’s commitment to cooperation. “We are ready to work with Ethiopia’s leadership and people to build a future of shared prosperity,” he stated. Turkey’s role as a mediator has been crucial, with President Erdoğan personally overseeing the talks. This agreement highlights Turkey’s growing influence in the Horn of Africa, where it has worked to foster stability and collaboration. The upcoming visit by President Erdoğan marks another milestone in strengthening Turkey’s diplomatic and economic ties with both Ethiopia and Somalia, offering hope for a more cooperative future in the region as 2024 draws to a close.

Ethiopia and Somalia Reach Landmark Agreement with Turkish Mediation

Ethiopia and Somalia Reach Landmark Agreement with Turkish Mediation In a breakthrough hailed as a “historic agreement,” Ethiopia and Somalia have resolved a year-long diplomatic feud following intensive negotiations mediated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara. The agreement, reached after eight hours of talks on Wednesday, is expected to pave the way for renewed peace and cooperation between the two Horn of Africa nations. Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud arrived in Ankara for the third round of Turkish-brokered talks, after previous efforts in July and October failed to yield progress. Erdogan, addressing a joint press conference, described the deal as a significant step toward a new chapter of collaboration. “This agreement marks the beginning of a new era based on mutual understanding and shared goals,” Erdogan stated. He expressed confidence that the accord would resolve Ethiopia’s pressing need for access to the sea while respecting Somalia’s sovereignty. The conflict stemmed from Ethiopia’s controversial deal in January with Somaliland, Somalia’s breakaway region, to lease a coastal stretch for a port and military base in exchange for recognition—a move Somalia condemned as a violation of its territorial integrity. The dispute escalated tensions, raising fears of conflict in the already volatile Horn of Africa. During the press conference, Prime Minister Abiy emphasized Ethiopia’s need for “safe and reliable access to the sea,” describing the agreement as a way to turn a year of tensions into a new partnership. “This will benefit not only Ethiopia but also our neighbors and the region at large,” Abiy remarked. President Mohamud, meanwhile, lauded the deal as a resolution to their differences, reaffirming Somalia’s commitment to collaboration. “We are ready to work with Ethiopia’s leadership and people to build a future of shared prosperity,” he said. Turkey’s role as a mediator has been pivotal, with Erdogan personally overseeing three rounds of talks. His diplomatic efforts reflect Turkey’s growing influence in the Horn of Africa, where it has played a key role in fostering stability. As 2024 comes to a close, this agreement offers hope for a more cooperative future in the region. It also underscores the importance of international mediation in resolving complex disputes and promoting regional integration.

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud Travels to Ankara for Critical Negotiations to Ease Somalia-Ethiopia Tensions

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud Travels to Ankara for Critical Negotiations to Ease Somalia-Ethiopia Tensions In a significant diplomatic move aimed at stabilizing the Horn of Africa, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud departed for Ankara, Turkey, on Tuesday to participate in the third round of high-stakes negotiations with Ethiopia. According to the Somali National News Agency (SONNA), the talks are orchestrated by Turkey and are pivotal in addressing the escalating tensions that threaten regional stability. Historical Context and Recent Developments The strained relations between Somalia and Ethiopia have deep historical roots, primarily stemming from border disputes and conflicting regional interests. The latest flare-up centers around Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s recent announcement to construct a new port in Somaliland—a self-declared independent region of Somalia. This move has infuriated the Somali federal government in Mogadishu, which views Somaliland’s bid for recognition as a direct challenge to Somalia’s territorial integrity. If Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed attends the upcoming meeting in Ankara, it would mark the first face-to-face encounter between the two leaders since the contentious port announcement. This meeting is seen as a critical opportunity to mitigate misunderstandings and negotiate terms that could prevent further destabilization in the region. Ethiopia’s Strategic Moves and Regional Implications Ethiopia, a landlocked nation with a population exceeding 100 million, has been actively involved in Somalia, deploying thousands of troops to combat al Qaeda-linked insurgent groups. The Ethiopian government has proposed recognizing Somaliland’s independence in exchange for a strategically significant strip of land located near the confluence of the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean. This area is of immense strategic importance, potentially providing Ethiopia with direct access to maritime routes that could enhance its trade and military capabilities. Such a recognition would not only alter the geopolitical landscape of the region but also set a precedent for other separatist movements within Africa. For Somalia, conceding Somaliland’s independence could weaken its federal structure and embolden other regions seeking autonomy. Turkey’s Mediating Role and Strategic Interests Turkey’s involvement as a mediator underscores its growing influence in the Horn of Africa. Ankara has sought to position itself as a key diplomatic player in resolving regional conflicts, leveraging its historical ties and economic investments in the area. Turkey’s strategic interests likely include securing trade routes, expanding its economic footprint, and fostering alliances that can counterbalance other regional powers. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s invitation to President Mohamud signifies Turkey’s commitment to facilitating dialogue and its vested interest in ensuring a stable and prosperous neighboring region. International Responses and Regional Alliances As of now, Ethiopian officials and Turkey’s foreign ministry have not issued statements regarding the upcoming talks. The international community is closely watching these developments, given their potential to influence broader geopolitical dynamics. The ongoing dispute has also led Somalia to strengthen its alliances with Egypt and Eritrea, both of which have their own contentious relationships with Ethiopia. Egypt has long opposed Ethiopia’s construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam on the Nile River, viewing it as a threat to its water security. Similarly, Eritrea, historically an adversary of Ethiopia, shares concerns over regional dominance and security. Somaliland’s Quest for Recognition and Internal Dynamics Since declaring independence in 1991, Somaliland has enjoyed relative peace and stability, contrasting with the tumultuous history of Somalia. Despite its effective governance and autonomous administration, Somaliland has struggled to gain international recognition, with the United Nations and major global powers maintaining Somalia’s territorial integrity as per international law. Mogadishu’s opposition to Somaliland’s independence is rooted in the desire to preserve national unity and prevent fragmentation. The proposed port project by Ethiopia is seen as an attempt to undermine Somaliland’s authority and potentially accelerate its path to recognized statehood, thereby reshaping the political landscape of the region. Implications for Regional Stability and Future Prospects The outcome of the Ankara talks could have far-reaching implications for the Horn of Africa. Successful negotiations might lead to a de-escalation of tensions, paving the way for cooperative ventures and mutual recognition agreements. Conversely, failure to reach an accord could exacerbate conflicts, drawing in neighboring countries and potentially destabilizing the already fragile region. Moreover, the resolution of Somalia-Ethiopia tensions is crucial for combating extremist groups in the region. A unified front and stable bilateral relations would enhance efforts against al Qaeda-linked insurgents, contributing to broader security objectives. As President Mohamud engages in these critical discussions, the eyes of the international community remain focused on Ankara, hopeful that diplomacy can triumph over discord and foster a new era of peace and cooperation in the Horn of Africa.