ANKARA: A recent agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia, facilitated by Turkey, underscores Ankara's commitment to diplomatic solutions aimed at fostering stability and cooperation in the Horn of Africa, according to Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. According to Anadolu Agency, Fidan emphasized that the agreement, known as the Ankara Declaration, is a significant step towards resolving longstanding disputes between Ethiopia and Somalia. "Throughout the process, we have listened carefully to the sensitivities, priorities and expectations of the parties," Fidan stated on X, highlighting Turkey's role in crafting a forward-looking joint declaration that will guide future cooperation between the two nations. The accord, which was announced after a meeting hosted by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, marks what Fidan described as a "historic" step towards enhancing peace and prosperity in Africa. Erdogan, speaking at a joint news conference in Ankara, declared the agreement as "the first step toward a new beginning based on peace, cooperation between Somalia, Ethiopia." The background of the conflict stems from Ethiopia's loss of access to the Red Sea following Eritrea's independence in 1991, as well as recent tensions over Ethiopia's deal with Somaliland to use the port of Berbera. The Ankara Declaration, affirmed during the meeting, reiterates the countries' commitment to each other's sovereignty, unity, and independence. Turkey's involvement is seen as a pivotal factor in mediating these regional tensions. Fidan expressed gratitude to both Ethiopia and Somalia for their trust in Turkey's mediation efforts, and assured continued support to strengthen the bilateral relations between the two nations.