Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Uganda Monitor
Published on 2024-03-03 13:34:35
Kenya’s President William Ruto has been actively engaging in back channels to ease tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia, driven by economic interests in both countries. Recent discussions indicate that both Addis and Mogadishu are expected to reduce their public rhetoric against each other, following meetings hosted by President Ruto with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed of Ethiopia and President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia in Nairobi.
Security and economic issues in the Horn of Africa were at the forefront of discussions during these meetings. The leaders focused on expanding partnerships to benefit the people of both Somalia and Kenya, particularly in the areas of economic and security ties. Kenya’s involvement in mediating the dispute between Ethiopia and Somalia, which escalated after Ethiopia signed an MoU with Somaliland, has been pivotal in de-escalating tensions. Both countries have agreed to refrain from discussing the issue publicly and plan to continue engaging in future meetings.
President Ruto’s efforts to resolve the issue were evident in his meeting with Prime Minister Abiy, where they emphasized respecting sovereignty and territorial boundaries in the region. The Nairobi Declaration, aimed at promoting peace, security, and stability on the continent, reflects a commitment to upholding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of African states.
Following their visits to Nairobi, Prime Minister Abiy traveled to Dar es Salaam while President Mohamud departed for Antalya, Turkey. The Nairobi Declaration serves as a face-saving and self-shielding mechanism for both Ethiopia and Kenya, with Kenya positioning itself as a diplomatic mediator while advancing its commercial interests, particularly in relation to the Lamu port project.
Ethiopia’s sacrifices for Somalia’s stability, including deploying troops and cooperating on border security, underscore the importance of maintaining good relations between the two countries. Despite past tensions with both Ethiopia and Kenya, Somalia’s admission into the East African Community is seen as a positive step towards rebuilding the country.
The visit also addressed internal challenges faced by Ethiopia, such as internal rebellions and criticism from Western countries over human rights violations. Both sides expressed a commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation in various sectors including trade, investment, agriculture, tourism, health, fisheries, and transport.
The camaraderie displayed between President Ruto and Prime Minister Abiy, including a warm embrace at the airport, symbolizes the diplomatic efforts to strengthen ties between the two countries. The exemption of Ethiopians from fees for the online visitor arrival management system further demonstrates a commitment to fostering closer relations.
In conclusion, President Ruto’s diplomatic initiatives have been instrumental in de-escalating tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia, paving the way for enhanced cooperation and stability in the region. The Nairobi Declaration represents a significant step towards promoting peace and economic development in the Horn of Africa.
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