Somaliland President Announces Anticipated Recognition by Ethiopia in Bilateral Agreement Involving Maritime Access

Somaliland and Ethiopia have formalized a memorandum of understanding, signifying a pivotal moment in their diplomatic relations. The agreement involves Somaliland granting Ethiopia access to the Red Sea, reciprocated by Ethiopia extending formal recognition to Somaliland. As the Somaliland government reported.

Addressing the development, the President of Somaliland expressed that Ethiopia is poised to become the inaugural nation to recognise the Horn of Africa state formally, once the agreement is conclusively executed. This marks a significant milestone for Somaliland, which has eagerly awaited formal recognition since 1991 if the agreement is approved.

Redwan Hussien, the National Security Adviser to the Prime Minister of Ethiopia, confirmed that as part of the accord, Somaliland would also obtain a stake in the state-owned Ethiopian Airlines, though specific details were not disclosed.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Somaliland emphasized that the agreement signifies a noteworthy diplomatic achievement and a mutually beneficial accord between the two nations.

The draft copy of the memorandum of understanding is expected to be presented to the parliamentary house for approval in the near future, affording lawmakers the opportunity to endorse or reject the agreement.