Written By Lisa Murimi
The diplomatic dispute between Ethiopia and Somalia, which had strained regional relations, has been resolved, according to Somali Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi.
Speaking on state television, Fiqi emphasized that Somalia made no concessions in the agreement.
The rift began in January 2024 when Ethiopia signed a maritime deal with Somaliland, a breakaway region Somalia claims as its territory.
The deal included plans for an Ethiopian naval base in Somaliland, sparking accusations from Mogadishu of aggression and an affront to its sovereignty.
Tensions have eased following Turkey’s mediation, culminating in a joint declaration on December 12, 2024.
The agreement includes plans for technical talks in February and commercial arrangements granting Ethiopia sea access under Somalia’s sovereignty.
An Ethiopian delegation led by Defence Minister Aisha Mohammed visited Mogadishu on Friday, focusing on the future of the African Union peacekeeping mission in Somalia.
Ethiopia, which has thousands of troops in Somalia outside the AU mission, agreed to collaborate on the mission’s next phase.
While Ethiopia has yet to comment on the Somaliland deal’s status, Fiqi claimed Somalia’s demands were accepted without concessions.
The agreement marks a significant step toward restoring stability in the Horn of Africa and avoiding a wider regional feud.