Ethiopia and Somaliland close to finalising controversial deal

HARGEISA, Somalia - The government of Ethiopia and the Somaliland breakaway region are close to finalizing the controversial deal signed in January 2024, officials said, despite resistance from members of the international community, who have questioned the legality and legitimacy of the deal.

But officials representing the two parties maintain that the deal would be actualized soon, with Ethiopia's seat to establish a Naval Base along the Red Sea, inside Somalia. Ethiopia will also start construction of the port having leased the land for 50 years.

In return, Ethiopia will become the first country to recognize Somaliland as a sovereign country, with the region's minister for foreign affairs and international cooperation Essa Kayd maintaining that the process is in an advanced stage.

These discussions follow a memorandum of understanding signed between Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi four months ago. The deal was declared by Somalia 'illegal' and it has since sought international support to 'thwart' Ethiopian aggression.

Kayd informed Deutsche Welle that negotiations have been ongoing, and technical committees have been appointed since the signing. However, he disclosed that the process slowed during Ramadan. He expressed confidence that the talks would conclude within the next two months, Addis Standard reports.

The recognition, Saad Ali, the Somaliland minister for finance says could provide Somaliland with a voice internationally and open opportunities for investment, trade, travel, and development. It would also potentially enable Somaliland to borrow from international financial institutions.

Minister Kayd has confirmed that three potential areas have been identified but declined to disclose them until further discussions with Ethiopian counterparts conclude.

The memorandum between Somaliland and Ethiopia has faced opposition from Somalia's Federal Government, which has accused Ethiopia of attempting to undermine Somalia's territorial integrity. The Group of Seven (G7) countries have also expressed concerns and encouraged dialogue between Somalia and Ethiopia to resolve tensions.

The Arab League of Nations has maintained that it would stand with Somalia should Ethiopia proceed with the expansionist ideals, that contravene the international laws. Turkey is set to deploy warships on Somalia waters as part of the deal to protect Somalia from Ethiopia’s aggression.

GAROWE ONLINE