|
LISTEN TO THIS THE AFRICANA VOICE ARTICLE NOW
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
Somalia Recalls Envoy After Ethiopia Signs Sea Access Deal with Somaliland
Somalia has expressed strong disapproval of a recent agreement between Ethiopia and the self-declared republic of Somaliland, calling it an “act of aggression” and a violation of its territorial integrity. The deal, signed in Addis Ababa, grants Ethiopia access to Somaliland’s coast in exchange for unspecified future recognition of Somaliland’s independence.
The details of the agreement remain unclear, but reports suggest it includes provisions for Ethiopian naval access to Somaliland’s coast and potential future recognition of Somaliland by Ethiopia. This has sparked outrage in Somalia, which maintains that Somaliland is a breakaway region and not an independent state.
Somalia has reacted swiftly and decisively to the agreement. It has recalled its ambassador to Ethiopia, declared the deal “null and void,” and urged the international community to intervene. Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Bare assured the public that the government will “defend the country in every legal way.” President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud echoed this sentiment, stating that “no-one has the power to give away a piece of Somalia.”
Somaliland, meanwhile, welcomes the agreement as a “significant diplomatic milestone.” President Muse Bihi Abdi claims the deal secures Ethiopia’s naval access in exchange for future recognition, a long-sought objective for Somaliland.
The agreement has raised concerns about potential instability in the Horn of Africa. The dispute between Somalia and Somaliland has simmered for decades, and this latest development could reignite tensions. Furthermore, Ethiopia’s involvement adds another layer of complexity to an already volatile region.
Somalia has called on the United Nations Security Council and the African Union to address the issue. The international community’s response will be crucial in determining the agreement’s future and its impact on regional stability.
Egypt Backs Somalia in Seaport Dispute with Ethiopia
Egypt has thrown its weight behind Somalia in a simmering dispute with Ethiopia over a port deal with the breakaway region of Somaliland. The move adds another layer of complexity to a volatile situation that threatens regional stability.
Ethiopia’s agreement to use a port in Somaliland, which declared independence in 1991 but remains unrecognized by the international community, has been met with fury in Mogadishu. Somalia considers Somaliland its own territory and condemned the deal as an “act of aggression” and a violation of its sovereignty.
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, in a phone call with his Somali counterpart Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, affirmed “Egypt’s firm position to stand by Somalia and support its security and stability,” according to his spokesman. This signals a potential shift in regional alliances, as Egypt has historically maintained close ties with Ethiopia.
The European Union has also weighed in, urging all parties to respect Somalia’s “unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity.” The EU statement emphasizes the importance of this principle for “the peace and stability of the entire Horn of Africa region.”
Meanwhile, President Mohamud also held talks with the Emir of Qatar, Tamim bin Hamad, on bilateral and regional issues. Qatar, another key player in the region, has yet to publicly comment on the port deal.
The unfolding situation raises concerns about a potential escalation of tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia, two countries already grappling with internal challenges.
LEAVE A COMMENT
You must be logged in to post a comment.