Somalia and Ethiopia have reached a significant agreement aimed at resolving a longstanding dispute involving the breakaway region of Somaliland and Ethiopia’s quest for reliable sea access. Announced in Ankara, the accord followed mediation efforts led by Türkiye’s President, who praised it as a historic moment of reconciliation and cooperation between two important Horn of Africa neighbors.
Under the terms of the new joint declaration, Somalia and Ethiopia pledge to set aside past disagreements and move toward common prosperity. Ethiopia’s prime minister expressed optimism that the deal would ease misunderstandings of the past year. Somalia’s leader welcomed the fresh start, emphasizing readiness to collaborate with Ethiopia and its people.
The two sides will begin technical negotiations by the end of February, aiming to finalize arrangements within four months. The deal acknowledges Ethiopia’s need for secure, sustainable, and internationally recognized access to the sea while reaffirming Somalia’s sovereign authority over its territory. Both leaders also agreed that any lingering issues would be addressed through dialogue, with Türkiye offering support if needed.
The move comes after months of heightened tensions following reports of an unconfirmed agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland. Somalia had fiercely opposed such plans as encroachments on its sovereignty. The new understanding aims to replace suspicion with constructive engagement, potentially opening the door to regional stability and economic development.