Somalia and Ethiopia Sign Historic Ankara Declaration to Normalize Relations

Ankara, Turkey – 11 December 2024:- In a landmark development, the leaders of Somalia and Ethiopia have reached a historic agreement in Ankara, Turkey, to normalize relations and lay the groundwork for a new era of cooperation. Facilitated by the President of Türkiye, H.E. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, the discussions between Somali President H.E. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister H.E. Abiy Ahmed Ali culminated in the signing of the Ankara Declaration.

The meeting, held in a spirit of mutual respect and constructive dialogue, marks a significant turning point in the often-fraught relations between the two neighbors. The Ankara Declaration emphasizes both nations’ commitment to respect each other’s sovereignty, unity, independence, and territorial integrity, in alignment with international law and principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter and the African Union’s Constitutive Act.

Key Points of Agreement

1. Reaffirmation of Sovereignty and Unity
The leaders pledged to respect each other’s territorial integrity and agreed to move past historical disputes. In a spirit of partnership, both nations committed to pursuing shared prosperity and addressing differences peacefully.
2. Acknowledgment of Ethiopian Sacrifices
Somalia formally recognized the contributions of Ethiopian soldiers within the African Union Missions, which have played a pivotal role in regional peacekeeping efforts.
3. Ethiopia’s Access to the Sea
Both nations acknowledged the mutual benefits of Ethiopia’s access to and from the sea while ensuring Somalia’s territorial integrity. The leaders agreed to negotiate bilateral arrangements, such as contracts or leases, to facilitate Ethiopia’s secure and sustainable access under Somalia’s sovereign authority.
4. Technical Negotiations to Begin
Somalia and Ethiopia will begin technical negotiations on these arrangements by February 2025, with a four-month timeline for conclusion. Türkiye will continue to facilitate this process to ensure fair and mutually beneficial outcomes.
5. Commitment to Peaceful Resolution
The leaders agreed to resolve any future disputes through dialogue and pledged to seek Türkiye’s assistance if necessary.

Türkiye’s Role in the Historic Agreement

H.E. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan was lauded by both parties for his pivotal role in facilitating the discussions. Türkiye’s commitment to supporting Somalia and Ethiopia in implementing the Ankara Declaration underscores its growing influence in regional peacebuilding efforts.

A New Chapter in Regional Relations

This agreement is expected to reshape the Horn of Africa’s political and economic dynamics. By fostering trust and collaboration, the Ankara Declaration sets the stage for a more stable and prosperous future for Somalia and Ethiopia.

Both leaders expressed optimism about the path ahead, signaling a commitment to turn a new page in their bilateral relationship. The international community, particularly neighboring states and partners in the African Union, has welcomed this breakthrough as a significant step toward peace and cooperation in the region.

As technical negotiations begin early next year, the world will be watching how this historic agreement translates into concrete actions that benefit both nations and the broader Horn of Africa.