Ethiopia and Somaliland Sign Historic MOU, Opening New Pathways to the Sea

On January 1st, 2024, after months of negotiations, Ethiopia and Somaliland inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for partnership and cooperation. The landmark agreement marks a significant step forward for Ethiopia, potentially granting it long-sought access to the sea and diversifying its seaport options.

The MOU is envisioned as a framework for multi-faceted collaboration between the two countries. According to the Ethiopian Prime Minister's Office (PMO), this agreement opens a new chapter in their relationship and holds immense potential for regional integration in the Horn of Africa. It also empowers Ethiopia to play a more significant role in maintaining regional peace and security.

While details of the MOU remain undisclosed by Ethiopia, a Somali national TV station, MM Somali TV, quoted President Muse Bihi Abdi stating, "We granted Ethiopia 20km of sea, and Ethiopia will be the first country to recognize Somaliland, as setin the MOU."

Adding further twist to the situation, the Somali government cabinet responded by announcing an emergency meeting on January 2nd to discuss and determine their response to the MOU signing, a Somali media disclosed. This development highlights the longstanding issues between Somalia and Somaliland, which are further complicated by this new agreement.

While the MOU represents a significant leap forward for Ethiopia's economic prospects through improved maritime capabilities, the situation remains fluid and its long-term implications are yet to be fully realized.