We have made progress in Somalia-Ethiopia row, Turkey says

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Turkey says it has made progress in the mediation talks between Ethiopia and Somalia, with the two nations embroiled in a tussle over access to the Red Sea, with Addis Ababa insisting on getting a gateway to the country.

In a statement, Turkey said 'notable progress ' has been made after the second round of talks which was indirectly held between the two nations. Turkey is a major security and development partner of Somalia.

Hakan Fidan, Turkey's Minister for Foreign Affairs, said the country is determined to reconcile Ethiopia and Somalia, adding that a mutual agreement will be arrived at soon. Turkey is pushing for economic influence in Africa.

Turkey has been carrying out shuttle diplomacy between Ethiopian and Somalian foreign ministers since Monday when both parties refused to meet. The third round of talks is set to be held in September this year.

“I am pleased to announce that the number and extent of issues we discussed, has increased significantly, compared to the first round,” Fidan said in English, speaking to the press alongside his two counterparts.

Turkey mediated the first round of talks in July. Turkey has been a major security stakeholder in Somalia, training the special forces (GorGor) who are taking an active role in the fight against Al-Shabaab.

'There are important convergences on some major principles and specific modalities. This constitutes notable progress,” Fidan added.

The two neighbors have a history of stormy relations and territorial feuds. They fought two wars in the late 20th century.

These tensions were exacerbated earlier this year when Addis Ababa signed a memorandum of understanding with Somaliland that gives Ethiopia — one of the largest landlocked countries in the world — long-sought-after sea access.

Ethiopian Foreign Minister Taye Atske Selassie told the press Addis Ababa sought to “secure dependable access” to the sea.

“In these discussions, we will remain ready to work closely to find solutions for regional tensions,” he said. “We look forward to having continued engagement that will ultimately help us resolve current differences.”

Ahmed Fiqi, the country's minister for foreign affairs, said the two countries had made progress after the round table talks

“Somalia remains committed to protecting its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and unity,” he said. “As we prepare for the third round of talks we are hopeful that the momentum that we have built will lead to a final solution.”

GAROWE ONLINE