Somalia Rejects Deal Between Ethiopia And Formally Recognized Somaliland

Somalia recently rejected a port deal between Ethiopia and Somaliland which supposedly granted landlocked Ethiopia access to 12 miles off the Red Sea in return for the recognition of Somaliland. Ethiopia intends to diversify its exports by leasing a military base on the sea for an agreed-upon 50 years. The MoU, or memorandum of understanding, can become a binding agreement that ultimately influences neighboring regions. Somalia, a nation that believes Somaliland is part of its territory, sees this agreement as a threat to its sovereignty. 

According to Somaliland’s foreign ministry, this agreement has the potential to be a “significant diplomatic milestone” for the region. The BBC reports that exchanging sea access for recognition is important for controlling violence and political tension within the region. Because Somalia believes Somaliland is part of their territory, it refuses to give access to any of the land’s resources. In a Reuters report addressing parliament, it is stated that Somalia intends to involve the “UN Security Council and the African Union to discuss the issue.”

This agreement has sparked conflict between regions, specifically between Somalia and Somaliland. Due to its lack of recognition, Somaliland has fallen into a state of poverty and political tension, ultimately impacting the civilians in neighboring areas. The prospect of this agreement grants recognition to Somaliland, which could result in stability within the region. By legitimizing this territory internationally, Somaliland can contribute to the global economy and construct a peaceful, independent nation. It is essential to keep peace between Somalia and Somaliland in an attempt to mitigate the possibility of war, so an adjustment of the agreement to accommodate both regions would be preferred. Instead of prioritizing power, money, and strategic military methods, these nations must focus on the well-being of their people.

The Somaliland War of Independence concluded on May 18, 1991, ending with Somaliland gaining independence and Somalia losing part of its territory. Sparking tensions between the two, Ethiopia’s effort to expand its coastal access generated hostility between Somalia and Ethiopia. In the past, Ethiopia and Somalia have had numerous military conflicts over economic interests and access to certain resources. Ethiopia’s attempt to cooperate with Somaliland increases its hostile relations and causes Somalia to defend its acclaimed territory.

Due to a history of Somaliland’s sovereignty being unrecognized internationally, Ethiopia’s course of action reveals a major potential diplomatic step in which peace can be allocated. To alleviate the possibility of major conflict, Somalia must continue to promote peace between regions and share their resources. The agreement suggested has the potential to stabilize the Somaliland region and bridge their contribution to the global market. Alternatives to military force include a cooperative collaboration between the three nations with the goal of long-lasting peace and the prevention of war. To preserve human safety, these nations must take preventative measures that reduce tension and encourage stability.

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