Djibouti and Ethiopia: “Fostering a Partnership That Extends Beyond Border Coordination”
The “Joint Border Administrators and Commissioners Meeting,” marking the 28th round of collaboration between Ethiopia and Djibouti, unfolded in the town of Debre Zeit (also known as Bishoftu), just 44 kilometers southeast of bustling Addis Ababa. This significant gathering was highlighted in a recent announcement by Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, putting a spotlight on a partnership crucial to both nations.
In the leading roles of this diplomatic assembly were Selamawit Dawit, Director General of Ethiopia’s Immigration and Citizenship Service, and Souleiman Moumin from Djibouti’s Ministry for Interior. Both figures spearheaded discussions with a focus on enhancing border management, strengthening security, and driving economic growth.
Selamawit Dawit offered a vivid metaphor for the relationship, emphasizing it as “a bond bound by blood beyond common border management.” The profound ties transcend mere geographical proximity, reflecting a deep-seated interdependence between the two countries.
Diving into the crux of the discussions, human trafficking was a critical issue addressed. Djibouti’s pivotal role in Ethiopia’s trade hasn’t been solely positive, as it’s become a clandestine passage for traffickers smuggling numerous Ethiopian youth. To combat these challenges, Selamawit highlighted the necessity for joint action against various transnational crimes such as human trafficking, terrorism, and illegal trade, underlining the importance of safeguarding citizens from both nations.
Souleiman Moumin echoed these sentiments and reportedly expressed confidence in the “shared vision of bolstering cross-border cooperation.” His statement emphasized the importance of collaborations in infrastructure, as well as peace and security, with the aim of ensuring mutual prosperity.
Despite the cooperative spirit at the meeting, it’s important to note a backdrop of unease. Over the past year, whispers of tension have surfaced, stemming from Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s “Grand Narrative,” which advocated for access to the Red Sea. This diplomatic stance led to friction with neighboring countries like Somalia and Eritrea, who have since aligned against Ethiopia.
In an interesting development, rumors have circulated that Djibouti offered the use of the Tadjoura port to Ethiopia, perhaps as a goodwill gesture towards mending ties with Somalia. However, official confirmation from Ethiopia remains absent, and Djibouti has made no further comments, leaving the future of this gesture in uncertain waters.
This meeting stands as a testament to the intricate dance of diplomacy, with both nations striving to nurture their multifaceted relationship amidst broader regional challenges. As they endeavor to secure their borders and tackle shared threats, Ethiopia and Djibouti underscore the need for continued dialogue and cooperation, reflecting hope for a more interconnected and secure future in the Horn of Africa.
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
Axadle international–Monitoring
