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Diplomatic relations between Somaliland and Djibouti appear to be on the path to reconciliation following a visit from a high-ranking delegation from Somaliland. The visit, led by Ali Hamud Jibril, the Second Deputy Speaker of Somaliland’s House of Representatives, marks a significant step in mending ties strained over regional trade competition and other political concerns.
Strengthening Relations Amid Tensions
The visit, which took place this week, comes after years of diplomatic strain, primarily due to Somaliland’s growing maritime agreement with Ethiopia. Djibouti, which has historically served as Ethiopia’s gateway to the sea, perceives this deal as a direct threat to its economic lifeline — its strategically important port. The ongoing competition over trade routes and maritime control has fueled unease, but the recent diplomatic discussions suggest both sides are seeking a pathway to peace and cooperation.
Ali Hamud Jibril, the leader of the Somaliland delegation, emphasized the purpose of the visit in an interview with BBC Somali, stating that it was meant to “strengthen the brotherly relationship” between the two nations. He further expressed hopes that this visit would help build on their historical bonds and lead to closer cooperation. However, Jibril refrained from discussing the contentious maritime deal in depth, deferring those matters to Somaliland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the country’s newly elected leadership under the Wadani Party.
Maritime Disagreement: A Source of Strain
At the heart of the tensions is the Ethiopia-Somaliland maritime agreement, which many experts believe has introduced a level of competition Djibouti finds troubling. For decades, Djibouti has served as Ethiopia’s primary port for imports and exports. However, Somaliland’s maritime deal with Ethiopia, which includes a new port in Berbera, threatens to undermine Djibouti’s economic dominance in the region.
Dr. Ahmed-Saki Farah Idle, a regional security analyst, highlighted that Djibouti sees this agreement as a direct challenge to its economic interests. “Djibouti views the Ethiopia-Somaliland agreement as a challenge to its economic control, particularly over trade routes that have been a lifeline for the country,” said Dr. Idle. This sense of competition is at the core of the diplomatic friction between the two countries.
A New Approach: The Wadani Party’s Diplomatic Shift
The visit also signals a potential shift in Somaliland’s foreign policy under the newly elected Wadani Party. Experts believe that the Wadani Party, which recently came to power in Somaliland, is adopting a more pragmatic approach to diplomacy, seeking to ease tensions and rebuild relationships with neighboring states. The visit to Djibouti, described by many as an unannounced diplomatic reset, reflects a willingness to engage in constructive dialogue despite previous strains.
Dr. Idle further commented that the visit also signals Somaliland’s desire to rebuild regional relations and address shared challenges. “This visit reflects a shift in Somaliland’s approach to diplomacy,” he said. “The Wadani Party is showing that it is willing to navigate complex regional dynamics, which could lead to a more stable and cooperative future.”
Djibouti’s Role in Somalia-Somaliland Negotiations
The renewal of dialogue between Somaliland and Djibouti could also have broader implications for the ongoing Somalia-Somaliland negotiations. Djibouti has long played a key role in facilitating these discussions, although tangible progress has been elusive. Dr. Idle noted that renewed diplomatic engagement could revitalize Djibouti’s role in the mediation process, fostering more productive negotiations between the Somali government and Somaliland.
Djibouti’s role as a neutral facilitator in these discussions has been crucial in the past, and many hope that this renewed cooperation will pave the way for more fruitful discussions and a peaceful resolution to the long-standing disputes between Somalia and Somaliland.
Conclusion: A Path Toward Regional Cooperation
The visit by the Somaliland delegation to Djibouti marks an important moment in the history of the Horn of Africa’s diplomatic relations. As both countries move beyond past tensions, the future of their relationship depends on sustained dialogue and cooperation. While challenges remain, particularly surrounding the maritime agreement, there is hope that these discussions will serve as a foundation for stronger diplomatic and economic ties in the region.