Tensions Rise Between Somalia and Ethiopia

Somalia has sent home to Mogadishu Ethiopia’s ambassador, Muktar Mohamed Ware, “for consultations” and closed consulates in Puntland and Somaliland regions.

“The Ethiopian government’s gross interference in Somalia’s internal affairs is a violation of Somalia’s independence and sovereignty,” the Somali Prime Minister’s Office said, according to Reuters.

At issue is the dispute over a memorandum of understanding Ethiopia signed in January to lease 20 kilometers of coastline in Somaliland, thereby gaining access to the sea. Somaliland is a territory with effective autonomy since 1991, located in northern Somalia, which declares itself an independent Republic despite its lack of recognition by the international community.

In exchange for access to the sea where, among other things, a military base could be located, Ethiopia recognized Somaliland. In Somalia, the agreement was described as “illegal,” and analysts feared that it could destabilize the Horn of Africa region, as facts show.

Added to this in recent days is the issue of Puntland, one of Somalia’s states that decided to withdraw recognition from the Mogadishu government following unwanted changes made by parliament to the country’s interim constitution. The Puntland administration has explained that it considers itself a fully independent state until a constitution and independent government is approved by all Somalis.

“These measures were taken in the interest of protecting the sovereignty, unity, independence, and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia,” the Foreign Ministry wrote in a statement published by Nova news agency. “Although the Federal Government of Somalia remains steadfast in its commitment to maintaining and developing peaceful relations with all neighboring countries, it is important that mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity form the basis of such relations.”