Somalia Explores Indian Ocean Port Access for Ethiopia

Somalia is considering granting Ethiopia access to an Indian Ocean port to alleviate its landlocked status. Ongoing discussions are expected to culminate in a framework agreement by June. Tensions arose in January 2024 due to Ethiopia’s dealings with Somaliland. Diplomatic efforts are aimed at resolving disputes and enhancing regional trade.

On February 28, 2025, Mohammed Omar Ahmed reported that Somalia is considering providing landlocked Ethiopia access to a port on the Indian Ocean. This move aims to resolve an ongoing dispute regarding Ethiopia’s need for a direct maritime trade route. Somali Foreign Affairs Minister Ali Mohamed Omar stated that discussions are ongoing, with a target of finalizing a framework agreement by June.

Omar elaborated that the terms of this agreement will define the type of port to be offered, the specific location within the Indian Ocean, and the associated costs. His remarks followed a meeting between Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in Mogadishu.

In January 2024, tensions escalated when Prime Minister Abiy announced plans for an agreement with Somaliland, a region that Somalia claims sovereignty over, concerning access to a port and a military base in the Gulf of Aden. This agreement included an assurance for a stake in Ethiopian Airlines for Somaliland, which declared independence in 1991 but has not received international recognition.

In December, an accord facilitated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan urged Abiy and Mohamud to settle their differences by the end of February. In a related development, Somalia announced plans for Turkish firm Metag Holding to commence the construction of a port in Hobyo by year-end. Meanwhile, Ethiopia remains reliant on neighboring port facilities since becoming landlocked in 1993.

In conclusion, Somalia is contemplating granting port access to Ethiopia in a bid to resolve trade route disputes, with discussions now underway for a framework agreement. This initiative reflects ongoing diplomatic efforts between the two nations in light of recent tensions involving Somaliland. Ultimately, a successful resolution might strengthen regional cooperation and economic stability for both Somalia and Ethiopia.

Original Source: gcaptain.com