Erdogan announces that Somalia, Ethiopia reached joint declaration aimed at resolving their dispute

(MENAFN) Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced that Somalia and Ethiopia, two neighboring countries in the Horn of Africa with differing views on the separatism of the Somaliland region, have reached a joint declaration aimed at resolving their dispute. During a joint press conference in Ankara, Erdogan expressed gratitude to Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali for their "historic reconciliation."

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud emphasized his country’s readiness to work alongside Ethiopia's leadership and people to capitalize on available opportunities, noting that both nations share a common interest in cooperation. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed stated that Ethiopia’s aspiration for secure access to the sea is a peaceful initiative, and the discussions were focused on fostering cooperation between the two countries.

Erdogan held separate meetings with both leaders in Ankara on Wednesday, as part of efforts to mediate the ongoing conflict between the neighboring nations. The dispute between Somalia and Ethiopia intensified earlier this year when Addis Ababa revealed plans to build a port in the separatist region of Somaliland in exchange for recognition, which Mogadishu strongly opposes. Somaliland has enjoyed a degree of autonomy, peace, and stability since declaring independence in 1991.

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