Stir in Horn of Africa

 

The Washington Post: Ethiopia, historically a significant hub in global trade, has been landlocked except for a brief period in the 20th century. This has led Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to seek maritime access, a move driven partly by Ethiopia's economic challenges and internal conflicts. Recently, a groundbreaking agreement was announced between Ethiopia and the self-declared Republic of Somaliland. This deal involves Ethiopia leasing a portion of Somaliland's coastline near the port of Berbera, potentially in exchange for Ethiopia recognizing Somaliland's independence.

Somaliland, which separated from Somalia 30 years ago, has remained unrecognized by U.N. member states, but hopes that Ethiopia's recognition will lead other African nations to follow suit. Ethiopia, facing economic hardships, plans to pay for this access by offering Somaliland a stake in its national airline. Previous Ethiopian attempts to diversify port access, like a 2018 deal for a stake in Berbera's port, were unsuccessful.

Somalia strongly opposes the deal, recalling its ambassador from Ethiopia and holding protests. Somalia's president, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, has signed a bill rejecting the agreement, emphasizing Somalia's commitment to unity and territorial integrity. International bodies, including the EU, African Union, Arab League, and Organization of Islamic Countries, have advised Ethiopia against proceeding with the deal, citing the need to avoid increasing regional tensions.

The U.S. and Britain call for dialogue, respecting Somalia's sovereignty. Turkey, with significant interests in Somalia, also supports Somali unity. Despite regional criticism, Abiy Ahmed insists that Ethiopia seeks peaceful access to the sea and that the deal could provide political benefits domestically, especially given Ethiopia's recent internal conflicts and economic difficulties. Analysts suggest that while the agreement might raise concerns of a broader crisis, it could represent a practical solution reflecting the realities of the Horn of Africa