Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Abiy Ahmed to Meet in Ankara to Discuss Somaliland Dispute
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia and Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed of Ethiopia are set to hold a crucial meeting in Ankara, Turkey to address the ongoing dispute over Somaliland. This meeting, arranged by Ethiopia, marks the first direct discussion between the two leaders since Ethiopia’s controversial maritime agreement with Somaliland in January. The agreement allows Ethiopia access to a 20-kilometer stretch of Red Sea coastline in exchange for potential recognition of Somaliland’s independence. However, Somalia claims Somaliland as part of its territory and has deemed the agreement illegal. Accusations of sovereignty infringement have been denied by Addis Ababa, sparking concerns of conflict in the Horn of Africa region.
Previous attempts to resolve the issue through mediation by Turkey have proven unsuccessful, heightening the urgency of the upcoming meeting between President Mohamud and Prime Minister Ahmed. The outcome of their discussions could have far-reaching implications for the region and the delicate balance of power in the Horn of Africa.
SOURCE: VOA NEWS
