AU Calls for Restraint Amidst Rising Tensions Over Ethiopia-Somaliland Deal
As tensions escalate between Ethiopia and Somalia following Ethiopia’s recent maritime agreement with Somaliland, the African Union’s Peace and Security Council convened on Wednesday, urging both parties to exercise restraint and engage in meaningful dialogue. The unexpected deal, signed on January 1, has raised concerns about its potential impact on regional peace, security, and stability.
Tensions Rise Over Maritime Accord
Ethiopia, seeking access to the coastline, signed a maritime accord with Somaliland, a breakaway region not internationally recognized but seeking independence. The memorandum of understanding involves leasing 20 kilometers of Somaliland’s coast to Ethiopia for 50 years, with plans for a naval base and commercial port. Somalia has vehemently rejected the deal, citing violations of international law.
Key Players and Positions
| Player | Position |
|---|---|
| AU’s Peace and Security Council | Urges restraint and meaningful dialogue |
| Somalia | Rejects the deal, vows to defend territory |
| Ethiopia | Seeks maritime access, signs accord with Somaliland |
| Somaliland | Agrees to lease coastline to Ethiopia |
AU’s Call for Dialogue
The Peace and Security Council expressed deep concern about the escalating tension and its potential adverse impact on the region’s peace and stability. Emphasizing a commitment to preserving the territorial integrity of all member states, the council called for both Ethiopia and Somalia to de-escalate and engage in meaningful dialogue to find a peaceful resolution to the matter.
International Response and Regional Meeting
International players, including the United States, European Union, China, and the Arab League, have called for respect for Somalia’s sovereignty. The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (Igad), a regional trade bloc, plans to convene on January 18 in Uganda to address the tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia.
International Responses
| International Player | Position |
|---|---|
| United States | Calls for respect for Somalia’s sovereignty |
| European Union | Advocates for a peaceful resolution |
| China | Urges respect for Somalia’s territorial rights |
| Arab League | Emphasizes the importance of sovereignty |
Somaliland’s Quest for Statehood
Somaliland, a region of approximately 4.5 million people, declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but lacks international recognition. Despite having its own government, security forces, and currency, it remains poor and isolated. Somalia opposes Somaliland’s independence claim, but its influence over the region’s affairs is limited.
Ethiopia’s Maritime Access
Ethiopia, the second most populous country in Africa and historically landlocked, lost access to the coast when Eritrea declared independence in 1993. Since then, Ethiopia has primarily relied on Djibouti for trade routes. The recent deal with Somaliland signals Ethiopia’s pursuit of maritime access to enhance its trade capabilities.
