ANKARA: Ethiopia and Somalia have reached an agreement to address their conflict during Ankara-mediated peace talks, as announced by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The talks, facilitated by Turkey, aim to resolve tensions between the two nations and establish a framework for future cooperation. According to Kuwait News Agency, President Erdogan made the announcement at a joint news conference with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. The leaders agreed to hold technical negotiations by the end of February 2025, with the goal of formulating a mutually beneficial agreement within four months. The agreement is expected to recognize Ethiopia's access to the sea while respecting Somalia's territorial integrity. The joint statement issued by Somalia and Ethiopia is intended to lay the groundwork for cooperation based on mutual respect, according to Erdogan. The Turkish President emphasized that the countries will collaborate on future projects to enhance regiona l peace and prosperity. Both Somali President Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Ahmed expressed gratitude for Turkey's role in facilitating the peace talks. Ahmed highlighted Turkey's efforts in resolving the conflict, while Mohamud acknowledged Turkey's contribution to addressing the long-standing territorial and political disputes between the two countries. Relations between Ethiopia and Somalia deteriorated after Ethiopia entered an agreement with Somaliland on January 1 to utilize the Red Sea port of Berbera. The Ankara-mediated talks are seen as a significant step towards mending ties between the two nations.
