Somaliland President Defends Naval base Agreement with Ethiopia, Asserts Sovereign Right

President Muse Bihi of Somaliland has reaffirmed his commitment to a naval base agreement with Ethiopia, addressing regional tensions surrounding the deal. Bihi emphasized Somaliland’s right in forging partnerships and clarified that the intent is not to establish a new port for Ethiopia. Instead, the Berbera port will be utilized to enhance bilateral trade.

In response to objections from Somalia, President Bihi asserted that Somalia lacks the authority to invalidate the agreement, highlighting the separate paths the two nations have taken over the past three decades.

Addressing Egypt’s President’s support for Somalia, Bihi questioned the reference to borders, underscoring the distinct borders between Somaliland and Somalia. He reiterated Somaliland’s foreign affairs ministry statement, advising Egypt to focus on its immediate neighbors.

However, Ethiopia and Somaliland are set to formalize the definitive agreement as two distinct and sovereign nations. According to him, The signing is contingent upon the official recognition of Somaliland by Ethiopia.