Somalia is evaluating granting Ethiopia access to an Indian Ocean port to alleviate trade route disputes. Negotiations are scheduled to conclude with a framework by June, following leader discussions aimed at resolving tensions. Ethiopia seeks this access to enhance its economy as it remains landlocked since 1993.
Somalia is considering providing Ethiopia, a landlocked nation, access to a port on the Indian Ocean. This decision aims to resolve ongoing tensions surrounding Ethiopia’s need for a direct trade route to the sea. Ali Mohamed Omar, Somalia’s state minister for foreign affairs, revealed that discussions are underway to finalize a framework agreement by June, detailing the type of port, its location, and associated costs.
The dialogue follows a prior meeting between Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, seeking to deescalate conflicts that arose in January 2024. This tension emerged when Abiy announced intentions to establish a deal with Somaliland, a self-governing region claimed by Somalia. In return, Somaliland was promised a stake in Ethiopian Airlines, a significant airline in Africa.
Somalia and Ethiopia aim to settle their disputes based on a prior arrangement facilitated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Previously, in October, Somalia announced that Metag Holding from Ankara would initiate port construction in Hobyo by the year’s end. Ethiopia, having been landlocked since Eritrea’s independence in 1993, especially seeks reliable access to maritime routes for its economy.
In summary, Somalia is contemplating granting Ethiopia Indian Ocean port access, which could ease trade and territorial disputes. Ongoing negotiations are expected to yield a framework agreement by June, following recent talks between top leaders. With these developments, both nations seek to enhance economic collaboration while addressing longstanding tensions.
Original Source: gcaptain.com
