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In a historic step toward resolving a long-standing territorial dispute, Somalia has agreed to grant Ethiopia access to its ports for commercial use. The decision, announced following high-level talks between Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, marks a significant milestone in the relationship between the two East African nations. The agreement is expected to foster economic cooperation while addressing tensions that have simmered for years.
The framework agreement, set to be finalized by mid-2025, will allow Ethiopia, a landlocked nation, to utilize Somali ports for trade and imports. This arrangement aims to reduce Ethiopia’s heavy reliance on Djibouti, which currently handles over 90% of its maritime trade. Somali officials have emphasized that the agreement does not compromise the country’s sovereignty, as Ethiopia will not gain ownership of any Somali ports but will instead have conditional access for commercial purposes.
Somalia’s Foreign Minister Ali Mohamed Omar highlighted the significance of the deal, stating, “This agreement is a step toward fostering regional trade and economic integration. It reflects our commitment to resolving disputes through dialogue and mutual understanding.” The ports under consideration include Mogadishu, Hobyo, and Kismayo, with the final selection dependent on logistical and economic factors.
The move comes after years of strained relations, exacerbated by Ethiopia’s controversial agreements with Somaliland, a self-declared independent region of Somalia. In 2024, Ethiopia signed a deal granting it access to Somaliland’s Berbera port, a move Somalia condemned as a violation of its territorial integrity. The new agreement between Somalia and Ethiopia seeks to address these tensions by providing a mutually beneficial solution that respects Somalia’s sovereignty.
Economic experts have lauded the agreement as a potential game-changer for the region. By granting Ethiopia access to its ports, Somalia stands to benefit from increased trade and investment, which could boost its economy and create jobs. For Ethiopia, the deal offers a more diversified and cost-effective trade route, reducing its dependence on Djibouti and enhancing its economic resilience.
However, the agreement is not without its challenges. Critics have raised concerns about the potential impact on Somalia’s maritime resources and the need for robust regulatory frameworks to ensure transparency and accountability. Additionally, the deal’s success will depend on the ability of both nations to navigate complex logistical and political hurdles.
The international community has welcomed the agreement as a positive step toward regional stability. The African Union and the United Nations have expressed support for the initiative, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in addressing shared challenges. “This agreement demonstrates the power of diplomacy in fostering peace and development,” said an AU spokesperson.
The Somali government has also announced plans to invest in port infrastructure to accommodate the increased trade volume. These developments are expected to enhance Somalia’s position as a key player in regional trade and logistics, further solidifying its role in the Horn of Africa’s economic landscape.
As the two nations work toward finalizing the agreement, the focus remains on ensuring that the deal benefits both parties while safeguarding Somalia’s sovereignty. The landmark move underscores the potential for cooperation to resolve disputes and build a more prosperous future for the region.