Review of Controversial Sea Access MoU between Somaliland and Ethiopia Planned by Irro
Abdirahman Irro plans to review the contentious Sea Access MoU between Somaliland and Ethiopia upon taking office, amid accusations from Somalia of Ethiopian territorial annexation. The agreement allows Ethiopia access to the Red Sea in exchange for recognizing Somaliland, which remains part of Somalia. Tensions have led to diplomatic expulsions and a firm Somali stance against the MoU, supported by regional allies.
Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, known as Irro, has announced his intention to review the Sea Access Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Somaliland and Ethiopia, following his upcoming assumption of office on December 13. This agreement, which grants Ethiopia 20 kilometers of access to the Red Sea while recognizing Somaliland’s sovereignty, has incited significant contention in the Horn of Africa. Somali authorities have accused Ethiopia of territorial annexation, leading to heightened tensions in the region, and Ethiopia has remained largely mute regarding the specifics of the deal.
Amidst a turbulent political landscape, Irro aims to scrutinize the MoU to determine its implications for Somaliland. Though he has expressed support for the initiative, presenting it as vital for Somaliland’s aspiration for international acknowledgment, he admits that he must first examine the agreement in depth. In discussions with outgoing President Muse Bihi, Irro emphasized the necessity of prioritizing the agreement early in his presidency.
The ongoing controversy surrounding this MoU has prompted the Somali government to expel Ethiopian diplomat Ali Mohamed Adan, alleging that his activities were inconsistent with his diplomatic role. Somali officials, including Ambassador to Tanzania Ilyas Ali Hassan, have condemned the MoU as a violation of Somali territorial integrity, garnering backing from regional allies like Egypt and Eritrea in their calls for Ethiopia to retract the agreement. Despite mediation attempts by Turkey, Somalia maintains a firm stance that Ethiopia must withdraw before any discussions can take place.
The Sea Access MoU between Somaliland and Ethiopia was signed nearly a year ago, aiming to provide Ethiopia with a crucial point of access to the Red Sea, potentially facilitating significant economic development. However, this agreement has not been well received by Somalia, which views it as an infringement on its territorial integrity. The impending leadership change in Somaliland, with Irro succeeding Muse Bihi, presents an opportunity for a reassessment of this contentious agreement, especially given the regional geopolitical intricacies and Somalia’s firm opposition backed by its allies.
In summary, the review of the Sea Access MoU between Somaliland and Ethiopia stands at a pivotal moment with the transition to new leadership in Somaliland. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, or Irro, is poised to examine the provisions of this agreement, which has sparked substantial unrest in the Horn of Africa. As such, his administration’s approach will significantly impact Somaliland’s aspirations for international recognition and the broader dynamics in the region.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
