Somalia and Ethiopia have taken a significant step toward resolving their dispute over Ethiopia’s access to the sea by signing the Ankara Declaration. The agreement, facilitated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, underscores a commitment to peaceful dialogue, mutual respect, and regional cooperation.
The landmark meeting, held in Ankara, brought together Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. Discussions were described as “cordial and constructive,” marking a pivotal moment for the Horn of Africa as the two nations seek to address one of the region’s most pressing geopolitical challenges.
The Ankara Declaration reaffirms Somalia and Ethiopia’s mutual respect for sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, principles enshrined in international law and the Constitutive Act of the African Union. Both leaders emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation as they move forward.
“The leaders of Somalia and Ethiopia reaffirmed their respect and commitment to one another’s sovereignty, unity, independence, and territorial integrity,” the declaration stated, setting a tone of collaboration while highlighting a shared commitment to peaceful solutions.
The declaration also acknowledges Ethiopia’s need for secure and sustainable access to the sea. However, it makes clear that any arrangements must respect Somalia’s territorial authority and sovereignty. Ethiopia, a landlocked nation since Eritrea’s independence in 1993, has long sought reliable maritime access to enhance its economic and trade capabilities. This need has often been at the center of regional tensions, particularly concerning Somalia’s strategic ports.
The declaration signals Somalia’s recognition of Ethiopia’s challenges but insists on solutions grounded in mutual benefit and respect for its territorial borders. Somalia’s leadership has consistently maintained that decisions on sea access must be sovereign and legally binding.
A key outcome of the Ankara Declaration is the decision to initiate technical negotiations by February 2025. The talks, facilitated by Turkey, are expected to conclude within four months. Both sides have agreed to focus on commercial arrangements that may include contracts, leases, or similar bilateral agreements.
This framework aims to ensure Ethiopia’s access to the sea in a reliable, secure, and sustainable manner, while remaining under Somalia’s sovereign authority. Such an arrangement, if finalized, could pave the way for broader economic cooperation and regional stability.
“They further agreed to closely work together to finalize mutually advantageous commercial arrangements,” the declaration emphasized, underscoring the need for sustainable solutions that benefit both nations.
The Ankara Declaration follows rising tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia after Ethiopia signed a controversial agreement with Somaliland on January 1, 2024. The memorandum granted Ethiopia access to the Red Sea through Somaliland in exchange for Addis Ababa recognizing Somaliland’s independence. The agreement was swiftly rejected by the Somali government, which considers Somaliland an integral part of its territory. In response, Somalia recalled its ambassador from Ethiopia and declared the deal null and void.
The Ankara talks mark a shift toward de-escalation and diplomacy following weeks of political uncertainty. By agreeing to a clear framework for negotiations, Somalia and Ethiopia have signaled their willingness to resolve the dispute through dialogue rather than unilateral actions.
The Ankara Declaration is a significant step forward for Somalia, Ethiopia, and the broader Horn of Africa. By emphasizing cooperation, respect for sovereignty, and peaceful negotiations, the agreement lays the groundwork for resolving longstanding disputes and fostering economic collaboration.
If successful, the technical negotiations will not only provide Ethiopia with reliable sea access but also strengthen Somalia’s position as a key player in regional trade and development. For both nations, this moment represents an opportunity to build trust, pursue shared prosperity, and contribute to the stability of the Horn of Africa.
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