Somalia has strongly condemned a recent deal between Ethiopia and the breakaway region of Somaliland in a move sparking tensions in the Horn of Africa. The agreement, announced on Monday, allows Ethiopia access to the Red Sea through the port of Berbera and includes the establishment of a military base. Somalia has deemed the pact a “clear violation” of its sovereignty, prompting the recall of its ambassador to Ethiopia.
The surprise Addis Ababa deal emerged shortly after Somalia’s central government had agreed to resume dialogue with Somaliland, a region seeking full statehood since declaring independence in 1991, a move unrecognized internationally and opposed by Mogadishu. The memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed between Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somaliland leader Muse Bihi Abdi has escalated tensions in the region.
The Somali cabinet labeled the agreement as “null and void with no legal basis” and appealed to the international community, including the United Nations, African Union, Arab League, and regional East African grouping IGAD, to support Somalia’s right to defend its sovereignty. The government has recalled its ambassador to Ethiopia for consultation.
Prime Minister Barre assured the nation of Somalia’s commitment to defending its territory through “any legal means possible.” He called for unity among the people to safeguard the country’s land, sea, and skies. Ethiopia has not yet responded to Somalia’s strong objection to the deal.
The agreement holds significance for Ethiopia, providing it with access to the Red Sea after being cut off from the coast following Eritrea’s secession in 1993. Ethiopia’s lack of direct access constrained its economy, leading to a reliance on Djibouti for trade. The deal with Somaliland offers an alternative route through the port of Berbera.
Ethiopia’s national security adviser, Redwan Hussein, disclosed that the agreement includes access to a leased military base on the Red Sea. The timeline for the implementation of the pact remains unclear.
The development follows recent talks between Somalia and Somaliland mediated by Djibouti, resulting in an agreement to resume dialogue. However, this latest deal has reignited political tensions in the region, emphasizing the complexities of territorial disputes and diplomatic relations.
