Somalia rejects Ethiopia's quest for negotiations over Red Sea accessMOGADISHU, Somalia - Ethiopia's quest to have negotiations over access to the Red Sea suffered a huge blow on Wednesday, with the Federal Republic of Somalia dismissing the move, noting that it is "not interested" in granting access to strategic assets like the port. Ali Omar, Somalia's Foreign Affairs minister, said the country will defend its assets such as the ports, and would only discuss trade and business with partners. Somalia is committed to enhancing peace, security, trade, and integration, he added. "We welcome trade and business partnerships that align with international law and best business practices," Omar added while emphasizing the need for "honest" and "mutual" cooperation between entities. Ethiopia has expanded her entry and exit options to Berbera Port due to congestion at the Port of Djibouti.

Source: Ethiopian News October 19, 2023 07:35 UTC