Representatives from Addis Ababa and Mogadishu have met in Ankara for a first round of conversations on resolving the dispute triggered by Ethiopia’s memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Somaliland. The MOU, signed early last year, saw Ethiopia pledge to recognize Somaliland’s independence in exchange for coastland access for a marine base. Ethiopia, with an estimated population of 120 million people, is the most populous landlocked country in the world. However, Somalia, which views Somaliland as part of its territory, protested that the deal infringed on its sovereignty. Following Turkey’s mediation, both parties agreed to engage in technical talks to resolve the conflict amicably. Following the success of the first meeting, the next round of talks was slated for March.
Source: AP
