The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), representing eight East African nations, voiced “deep concern” over escalating tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia regarding a recent pact with the self-proclaimed independent Somali region of Somaliland. The agreement, signed on January 1, grants Ethiopia access to the Red Sea through Somaliland.
Workneh Gebeyehu, the executive secretary of IGAD, emphasized the potential implications for regional stability in a statement on Wednesday.
He urged IGAD leaders to address the situation and called upon Ethiopia and Somalia to collaborate for a peaceful resolution.
In response, the Somali government expressed dissatisfaction, accusing IGAD of not condemning Ethiopia for violating Somalia’s sovereignty.
The Ethiopian government stated that the memorandum of understanding allows military and commercial maritime services in the Gulf of Aden, with reciprocal benefits for Somaliland.
President Muse Bihi Abdi of Somaliland claimed Ethiopia would internationally recognize Somaliland’s independence in exchange for maritime access. However, Ethiopia clarified that the agreement only involves assessing Somaliland’s recognition efforts.
Following an emergency meeting, the Somali government labeled the pact as “illegal” and decided to recall its ambassador to Ethiopia.
The European Union also emphasized the importance of respecting Somalia’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity for regional peace and stability.
Ethiopia, Africa’s second-most populous country, lost Red Sea access in 1993 after Eritrea gained independence. Currently land-locked, Ethiopia relies on Djibouti’s port for trade. Somaliland, although not internationally recognized, boasts economic development and political stability surpassing Somalia.
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