(30-06-24) ANKARA (Halqabsi News) – A Somali delegation, led by Foreign Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, has arrived in Ankara today for talks with Ethiopian counterparts, mediated by the Turkish government. The discussions aim to resolve a diplomatic crisis sparked by a controversial port deal between Ethiopia and Somaliland.
The Somali Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the talks, emphasizing Somalia’s commitment to “protecting the independence, sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia.”
The dispute revolves around a deal that would grant Ethiopia access to 20km of land in Somaliland, a self-declared republic not recognized by the international community, along with a naval base and a commercial port. Somalia considers the agreement a violation of its sovereignty.
Turkey, a close ally of Somalia and Ethiopia, facilitates the discussions. The Ethiopian delegation, led by Foreign Minister Taye Atske Selassie, arrived in Ankara yesterday.
According to Halqabsi News sources, Ethiopia may be prepared to withdraw from the Somaliland agreement. At the same time, Somalia might consider allowing Ethiopia to lease a commercial port, but not a naval base. However, the management and specific location of a potential commercial port, either Barave or Hobyo, remain points of contention.
Halqabsi News
