ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has voiced its support for the Ankara Declaration, a diplomatic initiative aimed at resolving misunderstandings between Ethiopia and Somalia. The declaration, facilitated by Trkiye, seeks to promote regional peace, integration, and development.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, the endorsement was made public following a meeting between Jemal Beker, Ethiopia’s Special Envoy and Ambassador Extraordinary to Pakistan, Turkmenistan, and the Kyrgyz Republic, and Ambassador Hamid Asghar Khan, Additional Secretary (Africa) for Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The discussion focused on the significant role Trkiye has played in mediating the dialogue between the two East African nations.
During the meeting, Ambassador Jemal emphasized the importance of the Ankara Declaration as a reflection of Ethiopia’s comprehensive foreign policy reforms, which prioritize regional integration and sustainable development. He highlighted the declaration’s emphasis on a win-win approach to achieving peace and stability, alongside its provision for Ethiopia’s access to the sea in accordance with international laws.
Ambassador Jemal also noted Ethiopia’s longstanding commitment to global peace, evidenced by its participation in United Nations Peacekeeping Missions. Ambassador Hamid Asghar Khan lauded the declaration as a pivotal initiative for fostering regional peace and stability, while also recognizing Ethiopia’s significant contributions to these efforts.
In addition to discussing the Ankara Declaration, both diplomats reviewed the broader aspects of Ethiopia-Pakistan relations and explored potential initiatives to strengthen their bilateral ties. Among these is the upcoming Single Country Exhibition, scheduled to take place in Addis Ababa in May 2025.