In a world where diplomatic gestures often speak louder than words, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), on a sunny Friday, extended a warm welcome to the encouraging diplomatic re-engagement between two pivotal African nations: Ethiopia and Somalia. This fresh air of diplomacy follows a notable visit by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to Mogadishu on Thursday—a move laden with both expectation and promise.
Inside the venerable halls of Somalia’s presidential palace, a meeting of paramount importance unfolded between Prime Minister Abiy and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. These two leaders, both pragmatic and visionary, came together to reaffirm their innate desire to forge stronger bilateral ties. Their discussions culminated in a joint statement underscoring a mutual commitment to dialogue and regional stability. As such, they illuminated the path toward a shared future, noting the ongoing technical discussions in Turkey—discussions that delved into the complexities of Ethiopia’s contentious agreement with North Western State of Somalia.
In echoing the sentiments of many invested in this relationship, IGAD declared, “We remain dedicated to supporting efforts that promote peaceful engagement and sustainable development in the region.” With these words, IGAD expresses not only commitment but a deep-seated belief in the power of collaboration to transcend boundaries.
What led to this moment of revitalized diplomacy?
To unravel this query, we must rewind to January 2024, a period marred by escalating tensions between the two countries. The source of this discord was Ethiopia’s decision to ink a memorandum of understanding with North Western State of Somalia—a self-declared but internationally unrecognized independent region of Somalia. The heart of the matter was Ethiopia’s plan to lease a segment of North Western State of Somalia’s coastline, envisioning a naval base and a commercial port. This development was largely seen as an implicit nod to North Western State of Somalia’s autonomy, a move that flared up diplomatic sensitivities.
Somalia, unreserved in its response, condemned the agreement, levying accusations that it undermined its sovereignty and territorial integrity. It was a dramatic moment. Threats followed, with Mogadishu hinting at expelling Ethiopian peacekeeping forces and pivoting to bolster diplomatic relations with Ethiopia’s regional rivals, Egypt and Eritrea. Suddenly, the usually placid waters between these neighbors were choppy and unpredictable.
Yet, here we stand, at an intriguing crossroad where hope whispers softly of change. The ongoing negotiations in Turkey are under careful scrutiny, akin to a tightrope walker balancing between regional security, economic cooperation, and the ever-complex question of territorial sovereignty. What outcomes might we see? The world watches with bated breath.
Reflecting on this evolving narrative, it’s hard not to ponder the wisdom of John F. Kennedy, who famously said, “Let us never negotiate out of fear. But let us never fear to negotiate.” Diplomacy, indeed, is not for the faint of heart but for those resilient enough to reach across divides.
A future where Ethiopia and Somalia hold hands—metaphorically speaking—beckons with the promise of shared prosperity and stability for their citizens. Can their leadership rise to this occasion?
As we meditate on these developments, let us appreciate the subtleties, the nuances, and the human element inherent in diplomacy. It is a tapestry woven with hope, history, and perhaps a touch of uncertainty.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.
