Addis Abeba– The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has welcomed the Ankara Agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia, describing it as “a substantial step towards strengthening the long-standing social fabric between the two sister nations” and demonstrating a commitment to resolving bilateral issues amicably.
Workneh Gebeyehu (PhD), IGAD’s Executive Secretary, praised the leaders of both countries for their “constructive engagement and spirit of cooperation.” He emphasized the importance of such diplomatic efforts in “addressing shared challenges and fostering stability and prosperity in the Horn of Africa.”
The Ankara Declaration, signed on December 11, 2024, during a meeting hosted by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, reaffirmed both nations’ commitment to sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity.
The declaration stated that the leaders “acknowledged the potentially diverse benefits that could be derived from Ethiopia’s assured access to and from the sea, whilst respecting the territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia” and agreed “to forgo and leave behind differences and contentious issues.”
Workneh also expressed his gratitude to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan for his “instrumental role in hosting and facilitating the discussions,” acknowledging that President Erdoğan’s “dedication to diplomacy and regional collaboration [was] a crucial factor in realizing this important milestone.”
The agreement includes plans for technical negotiations on Ethiopia’s sea access, scheduled to begin by February 2025 and conclude within four months. Both sides agreed “to closely work together to finalize mutually advantageous commercial arrangements” under Somalia’s sovereign authority.
The declaration also recognized the contributions of Ethiopian soldiers in Somalia, stating, “Somalia acknowledges the sacrifices made by Ethiopian soldiers.” It further expressed appreciation to Türkiye, noting, “We express our appreciation to Türkiye and President Erdoğan for this initiative and their ongoing commitment to the process.”
IGAD reaffirmed its commitment to supporting its Member States in their pursuit of “sustainable solutions through dialogue, partnership, and mutual cooperation.” AS
