Recently, tensions in the Horn of Africa have increased after landlocked Ethiopia gained a memorandum of understanding with Somaliland on January 1 that granted it access to the sea. The deal would bestow Ethiopia twelve miles of sea access along the shore of Somaliland for the next 50 years, where it intends to construct a naval base. In future, Ethiopia would look to recognise Somaliland as an independent country as Somaliland is not recognised by the United Nations or the African Union as an independent state. Somalia has regarded the growing links and military cooperation between Ethiopia and Somaliland as “an act of aggression” and an attack on its territorial integrity. It has also come to light that The United Arab Emirates has supported the presented deal. UAE strongly supports Abiy, Ethiopia’s Prime Minister, who has been the ambitious force behind this deal.
We condemn Ethiopia’s move to secure sea access along the Somaliland coast. Constructing a naval base without the consent of Somalia is a direct violation of Somalia’s territorial integrity. The principle of respecting the territorial integrity of sovereign states is a fundamental norm stated in the United Nations Charter under Article 2(4).
If Ethiopia proceeds to recognise Somaliland as an independent country without Somalia’s agreement, it could be seen as a violation of Somalia’s sovereignty. It involves altering the political status of a region within Somalia.
Moreover, the UAE’s backing of the proposed deal and its support for Somaliland may be viewed as interference in Somalia’s internal affairs, potentially violating the principle of non-interference.
We are deeply concerned that Rising Somalia-Ethiopia tensions could plunge the Horn of Africa into disorder. We request both states exercise restraint, de-escalate and entertain in meaningful dialogue to uncover a peaceful resolution. Further, We encourage both countries in the region to respect states’ independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity throughout the Horn of Africa. These issues should be resolved at the negotiating table and not through violence. Aggressive rhetoric can only perpetuate the violence. Constructive dialogue can create peace, opportunity, and hope.
