MOGADISHU (Somaliguardian) – The ongoing conflict in Jubaland has been incorporated into the agenda of negotiations between Somalia and Ethiopia, following reports of Ethiopian troops allegedly supporting Jubaland forces in recent clashes with Somali armed forces in the border town of Dolow.
The talks between Somali and Ethiopian officials took place on Tuesday in Addis Ababa, where Somali State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ali Bal’ad, met with his Ethiopian counterpart. This diplomatic dialogue comes one day after the border skirmish, which has drawn attention to the complex relations between the two countries. Their discussions also aimed to strengthen bilateral ties, building upon a recent Turkish-brokered agreement between Somalia and Ethiopia.
Key issues under review include access to Somalia’s coast for Ethiopia, a subject that remains contentious. The deal proposed a sustainable and reliable access route, focusing on commercial interests rather than Ethiopia’s earlier ambition of establishing a naval base. This shift marks a significant change in the tone of negotiations, with both countries seeking mutually beneficial arrangements.
The inclusion of the Jubaland conflict in the talks is seen as a strategic move by Somalia’s central government. Authorities in Mogadishu are seeking to oust Jubaland’s President, Ahmed Madobe, whose regional administration is heavily influenced by Ethiopia. This move may be aimed at undermining Madobe’s authority, particularly given his strong ties to Ethiopian authorities. However, it remains uncertain whether Ethiopia will support Somalia’s demand to weaken the regional leader’s position.
Ethiopia has a long history of supporting regional officials and warlords in Somalia, a strategy that has been central to its foreign policy in the Horn of Africa. This approach has often complicated efforts to stabilize Somalia, which has been struggling to recover from the collapse of its military government in 1991.
