Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has issued a stern warning, claiming that Somalia will “defend itself” if Ethiopia continues with plans to create a naval base in Somaliland. The controversy arises from Ethiopia’s recent memorandum of understanding, signed on January 1st, to lease a 20-kilometer coastline region in Somaliland. Despite Somalia’s claim to control the territory, Ethiopia intends to establish a naval presence in Somaliland, which has operated autonomously since 1991. The history of violence between Somalia and Ethiopia, especially territorial conflicts in the late twentieth century, overshadows the current scenario. Access to the Gulf of Aden via Somaliland would provide Ethiopia with an important naval base, especially after losing its Red Sea coastline following Eritrea’s secession in 1993.

Source: Ethiopian News February 26, 2024 12:01 UTC