Sunday January 14, 2024
Hargeisa (HOL) - The government of the self-declared Republic of Somaliland has asserted that the maritime agreement with Ethiopia will proceed despite objections from Somalia's federal government.
In a public address, Somaliland's Foreign Minister, Dr. Isse Kayd Mohamud, declared that the Somali federal government lacks the authority to halt the agreement.
"The government in Villa Somalia has been actively asserting its claim over Somaliland," Kayd said. "However, its limited control over the Banadir region undermines its position to discuss Somaliland's global relations."
Minister Kayd emphasized Somaliland's dedication to gaining international recognition, stating the government's intent to explore every beneficial opportunity. "The Republic of Somaliland has entered a new era, new stage - the year of the recognition," he remarked.
The agreement between Somaliland and Ethiopia, signed earlier this month, has sparked criticism from Somalia's government. President Hassan Sheikh of Somalia has declared the deal "null and void" and has accused Ethiopia of trying to destabilize the region.
Ethiopia, in response, likened the deal to the UAE's investment in Berbera's port, asserting that it poses no threat to regional stability.
The comments come ahead of an IGAD summit planned for January 18, focusing on the Ethiopia-Somaliland agreement. Djibouti, as the IGAD Regional Organization's chair, is convening a meeting. Djibouti's Foreign Affairs Ministry indicated that the gathering would be held in Uganda and hosted by President Yoweri Museveni.
The US government has voiced support for the conference. A statement from the State Department's Bureau of African Affairs expressed the support of the United States for the independence and territorial integrity of Somalia while also calling for de-escalation and dialogue.