Somaliland Upholds MoU with Ethiopia Amidst Somalia’s Diplomatic Shifts

Somaliland officials affirm their MoU with Ethiopia remains intact despite a new agreement between Somalia and Ethiopia facilitated by Turkey, emphasizing the distinct nature of Somaliland’s agreements. Diplomatic tensions escalate as potential implications for Somaliland’s previous MoU are debated, with new leadership in Somaliland pledging to continue pursuit of international recognition and adherence to the existing MoU.

In the wake of diplomatic tensions between Somalia, Ethiopia, and the breakaway region of Somaliland, officials from Somaliland have asserted that their existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ethiopia remains valid. This statement comes despite Somalia’s recent agreement with Ethiopia, facilitated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in the Ankara Declaration. According to Somaliland’s representative, Abdulahi Mohammud, any foreign interference with their bilateral relations will not be tolerated, emphasizing that Somaliland’s situation is distinct from that of Somalia and Ethiopia.

Somaliland’s announcement follows a series of strained relations involving Somalia, which has expelled Ethiopian diplomats and opposed Ethiopia’s involvement in missions within Somalia. Erdogan’s declaration aims to secure Ethiopia’s access to the sea while upholding Somalia’s sovereignty. A comprehensive dialogue between the parties is set to commence in February 2025, aimed at resolving outstanding issues and developing infrastructural arrangements without jeopardizing Somalia’s territorial integrity. Experts suggest that the implications of this agreement may undermine the MoU between Somaliland and Ethiopia, suggesting it may effectively lose its validity.

In the backdrop of these events, Somaliland recently transitioned to new leadership with Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, known as Irro, taking office. In his inaugural statement, President Irro emphasized a commitment to pursuing international recognition for Somaliland and advancing the existing MoU with Ethiopia, highlighting its importance in their diplomatic pursuits. He reinforced that negotiations between Ethiopia and Somalia should not impact Somaliland’s agreements with Ethiopia, affirming that the MoU remains binding and continues to be pursued diligently.

The relationship between Somalia and Ethiopia has historically been complex, influenced by territorial disputes and accusations of political interference. Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991, has sought international recognition as a sovereign state. Recent developments include a mediation process supported by Turkey, aimed at re-establishing diplomatic relations between Somalia and Ethiopia. This has raised questions regarding the legitimacy of prior agreements made by Somaliland with Ethiopia, specifically concerning a proposed access corridor to the Red Sea.

Somaliland’s leadership has reaffirmed their commitment to the Memorandum of Understanding with Ethiopia, asserting its validity amidst shifting diplomatic landscapes involving Somalia. The forthcoming technical discussions signal a critical juncture for defining the roles of all parties involved. As Somaliland seeks greater global recognition, the distinction between its agreements and those made by Somalia will be central to navigating future diplomatic interactions in the Horn of Africa.

Original Source: www.garoweonline.com