Ankara Agreement: Paving the Way for Ethiopia’s Aspirations of Access to Seaport

Addis Ababa December 15/2024 (ENA)—A Turkish-brokered agreement to end such misunderstanding between Ethiopia and Somalia has become an unprecedented development for the two fraternal nations and the East African region in general.

As Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan hosted the talks last night between Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, many are confident the Ankara agreement would offer potential benefits for Ethiopia and Somalia.

The agreement is highly anticipated to contribute to the endeavors of durable peace and stability in one of the world’s volatile regions, the Horn of Africa. Essentially, this agreement will be fostering cooperation between Ethiopia and Somalia in all aspects for mutual development.

Above all, as the Ankara agreement underscores, both parties committed to “resolutely move forward in cooperation towards common prosperity” while ensuring Ethiopia’s access to the sea. This could be considered as a fundamental step to realize Ethiopia’s aspirations of securing access to seaport in a spirit of good neighborliness and dialogue.  

Ethiopia, a landlocked country and with 120 plus million population size, seeks access to sea, which could significantly enhance its trade capabilities.

Given its geographical, historical, economic backgrounds, Ethiopia has initiated discussions to secure sea outlet based on the principle of mutual benefits and partnership that provide amicable opportunities to strengthen shared development.

In his speech on the agreement Prime Minister Abiy asserted that: “Ethiopia's aspiration to secure and reliable access to the sea is a peaceful venture, and one that would benefit all our neighbors.”

To this end, improved port access would also boost Somalia’s economy by generating revenue from port usage fees.

The talks and agreement signal a commitment from both nations to prioritize dialogue over conflict. This could pave the way for more comprehensive agreements that foster long-term cooperation in the Horn of Africa.

​​​​​The agreement represents a significant step toward fostering regional economic integration, mutual prosperity, and peace. Meanwhile it underscores the importance of dialogue in resolving disputes rather than resorting to conflict.

The agreement facilitates economic cooperation between Ethiopia and Somalia, with a focus on access to critical resources and trade routes. Ethiopia, as a landlocked country, has sought sea access that will ultimately benefit the peoples of the two countries and beyond.

The agreement is a model for resolving disputes peacefully. By bringing both nations to the negotiating table, Turkey showcased its ability as a neutral mediator. This approach contrasts with the frequent reliance on military or unilateral actions in the region.

The Ankara Agreement serves as a potential foundation for long-term regional integration and peace, but its implementation will require continuous commitment from all stakeholders to overcome existing hurdles.