U.S. Rejects Ethiopia-Somaliland MoU Amid Ongoing Diplomatic Dispute with Somalia

U.S. Rejects Ethiopia-Somaliland MoU Amid Ongoing Diplomatic Dispute with Somalia The United States has firmly stated that it does not recognize the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between Ethiopia and Somaliland, calling for a diplomatic resolution to the ongoing tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia. The MoU, which grants Ethiopia access to Somaliland’s Red Sea coastline, has fueled a diplomatic rift with Somalia, which views the deal as an infringement on its sovereignty. In an exclusive interview, U.S. Ambassador to Somalia Richard Riley reaffirmed Washington’s position, emphasizing that the U.S. is working to mediate the situation diplomatically. “We are very much aware and working collaboratively to make sure there is a diplomatic resolution of this current situation,” Riley said during an interview at the U.S. Embassy in Mogadishu. “It is an unfortunate situation, very disruptive, and started with this MoU between Somaliland and Ethiopia. Of course, we do not recognize it, and we are trying to solve it through diplomatic channels.” U.S. Calls for Peaceful Resolution The dispute between Ethiopia and Somalia erupted earlier this year when Ethiopia signed the MoU with Somaliland, a self-declared independent region that Somalia continues to claim as part of its territory. Under the agreement, Ethiopia would gain access to a significant portion of Somaliland’s Red Sea coastline for leasing, which has raised alarm in Mogadishu. Somalia considers any agreements made by Somaliland without its consent as a violation of its national sovereignty. Ethiopian forces have long been present in Somalia as part of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), contributing to regional security, but the diplomatic fallout from this MoU has placed strains on the relationship between the two countries. Ambassador Riley underscored the urgency of resolving the issue through diplomatic efforts, stressing that the U.S. and the international community are working non-stop to prevent further escalation. “No one can accept there would be any kind of conflict, much less war,” Riley said. “This is absolutely needed, and it is needed soon.” Ethiopia-Somalia Tensions Remain High Turkey, a key ally of Somalia, has attempted to mediate the dispute between Somalia and Ethiopia, but so far, talks have failed to yield a breakthrough. Both nations are set to meet for a third round of talks later this month, with hopes that further negotiations will prevent the situation from deteriorating into armed conflict. “The core issue remains Ethiopia’s refusal to annul the MoU with Somaliland, which is Somalia’s position,” said Abdi Aynte, a former Somali minister involved in previous negotiations. Analysts warn that unless Ethiopia reconsiders its stance, the prospect of a lasting agreement remains slim. The potential for conflict remains a significant concern, particularly with Ethiopian troops already stationed within Somalia under ATMIS. Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre recently stated that all Ethiopian forces should withdraw from Somalia once the ATMIS mandate expires at the end of 2024, further complicating the situation. U.S. Role in Regional Security and Stability Ambassador Riley highlighted the U.S.’s commitment to supporting Somalia’s sovereignty and security, noting that the U.S. remains Somalia’s largest donor and a key security partner. The U.S. has provided extensive military aid, debt forgiveness, and financial support to help Somalia combat terrorism and stabilize the nation. “We absolutely have always strongly supported the current ATMIS force here,” Riley said, commending the troop-contributing countries, including Ethiopia, for their bravery in combating terrorist groups like al-Shabaab. However, he emphasized that the U.S. would continue to support any peacekeeping mission aimed at promoting long-term stability and security in Somalia, including the forthcoming African Union Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). Riley stressed two immediate priorities for the U.S. in Somalia: ensuring that Somali armed forces have the resources needed to fight extremist groups and promoting economic development. “Somalia needs both physical and economic security,” he noted, adding that international investments and market connectivity are crucial for the country’s future. U.S. Push for a Diplomatic Solution As the situation unfolds, the U.S. continues to back peaceful negotiations, while remaining clear in its rejection of any agreements between Ethiopia and Somaliland that bypass Somalia’s sovereignty. The upcoming rounds of talks, facilitated by Turkey, will be critical in determining whether diplomacy can resolve the tensions or if the situation will escalate further. With Ethiopia’s strategic interests in the Red Sea and Somalia’s unwavering position on its territorial integrity, the dispute has become a pivotal issue in East African politics. The U.S. aims to ensure that the region remains stable and that the resolution of the MoU dispute aligns with Somalia’s sovereignty and broader peace efforts. 2 COMMENTS Ittu Aba Farda September 16, 2024 At 3:13 am Both the US Ambassador to Somalia and the Special Envoy to the Horn of Africa have made it clear that the US government does not and will not recognize the MOU signed between Ethiopia and Somaliland. It did not come as shocking to me because it was not done endorsed by the UN or any of its members. It is also obviously clear that no UN member country recognizes Somaliland as an independent nation even though they may have plausible reasons for that. There you have it. The people of Somaliland are paying a heavy price now for the fatal mistake their fathers made in 1960. But their brothers and sisters to their north in Djibouti made the wisest decision in 1977 no post colonialism African nation ever made by going independent. This MOU thing has all the characteristics of something that was not thought thru very well or it was done with an ulterior motive beyond the search for an outlet to a sea. It could breed other future MOU’s of all sorts, from the sensible to the destructive for the whole region or even for the entire continent. Who knows, el-Sisi may be seen signing an MOU with OLA or a faction of Fano rebels. Ethiopia is gripped with conflicts being waged by bigots and connivers who are hell bent on carving out a territory to call it their separate fiefdom. It is mind boggling why it encourages others to do the same to go separate ways, hell or high water. The need for an outlet to sea is understandable. But all such issues in other areas of the world were amicably resolved by peaceful diplomatic means. The issue of Somaliland is the issue that needs to be resolved by diplomatic and peaceful means by the Somali people themselves. It is a head scratcher why the leaders of Ethiopia chose to go this way unless at their right moment in the future, they themselves want to go their separate ways. It will create precedence for the coming of various fiefdoms being led by despots, bigots and connivers. Then the bloodletting will go in a way that country or region never seen in its history. Reading Obbo Bahru Zewde’s book on the history of the old country, I had come to understanding that there was a period where that country descended into multi fiefdoms entity where there was constant war between them. But in those they fought carrying swords and spears with limited presence of bolt action rifles. But now we live in highly efficient shoulder mounted killing automatic rifles such as AK 47’s and AR15’s. Add deadly drones to that, there will be nowhere to hide. At close range, a single rifleman can mow down 30-40 humans in seconds at close range with his AK47, AR15 and Uzi’s. So try to imagine the bloodshed among more than 130 million people. That is what has been depriving me of sleep since 1974. It is inevitable as long as current states in the federation are being led by irresponsibly angry men. They are angry after reading books written by foreign agents in missionary garbs more than 150 years ago. Those sinister individuals were not there to really preach The Holy Scriptures but in a scheme that goes like ‘Now we have the Bible/Qur’An and you natives have your lands’. A decade or two later that would change to ‘Now you have our Bible/Qur’An and we have your land’. The only Africans that did not fall for the ruse were our forefathers. Will that happen again? I don’t know. I really don’t know!!! Peace y’all!!!! Both the US Ambassador to Somalia and the Special Envoy to the Horn of Africa have made it clear that the US government does not and will not recognize the MOU signed between Ethiopia and Somaliland. It did not come as shocking to me because it was not done endorsed by the UN or any of its members. It is also obviously clear that no UN member country recognizes Somaliland as an independent nation even though they may have plausible reasons for that. There you have it. The people of Somaliland are paying a heavy price now for the fatal mistake their fathers made in 1960. But their brothers and sisters to their north in Djibouti made the wisest decision in 1977 no post colonialism African nation ever made by going independent. This MOU thing has all the characteristics of something that was not thought thru very well or it was done with an ulterior motive beyond the search for an outlet to a sea. It could breed other future MOU’s of all sorts, from the sensible to the destructive for the whole region or even for the entire continent. Who knows, el-Sisi may be seen signing an MOU with OLA or a faction of Fano rebels. Ethiopia is gripped with conflicts being waged by bigots and connivers who are hell bent on carving out a territory to call it their separate fiefdom. It is mind boggling why it encourages others to do the same to go separate ways, hell or high water. The need for an outlet to sea is understandable. But all such issues in other areas of the world were amicably resolved by peaceful diplomatic means. The issue of Somaliland is the issue that needs to be resolved by diplomatic and peaceful means by the Somali people themselves. It is a head scratcher why the leaders of Ethiopia chose to go this way unless at their right moment in the future, they themselves want to go their separate ways. It will create precedence for the coming of various fiefdoms being led by despots, bigots and connivers. Then the bloodletting will go in a way that country or region never seen in its history. Reading Obbo Bahru Zewde’s book on the history of the old country, I had come to understanding that there was a period where that country descended into multi fiefdoms entity where there was constant war between them. But in those they fought carrying swords and spears with limited presence of bolt action rifles. But now we live in highly efficient shoulder mounted killing automatic rifles such as AK 47’s and AR15’s. Add deadly drones to that, there will be nowhere to hide. At close range, a single rifleman can mow down 30-40 humans in seconds at close range with his AK47, AR15 and Uzi’s. So try to imagine the bloodshed among more than 130 million people. That is what has been depriving me of sleep since 1974. It is inevitable as long as current states in the federation are being led by irresponsibly angry men. They are angry after reading books written by foreign agents in missionary garbs more than 150 years ago. Those sinister individuals were not there to really preach The Holy Scriptures but in a scheme that goes like ‘Now we have the Bible/Qur’An and you natives have your lands’. A decade or two later that would change to ‘Now you have our Bible/Qur’An and we have your land’. The only Africans that did not fall for the ruse were our forefathers. Will that happen again? I don’t know. I really don’t know!!! Peace y’all!!!! Ittu Aba Farda September 16, 2024 At 3:15 am But there are others among us who erroneously accuse Good Ole USA for problems we created on ourselves. In short, it is all part of decades old ‘my dog ate my home work’ copout, lame excuse. USA was not the one who created Amharas, Tigres, Oromos, Afars, Somalis, Sidamas and more than 80 groups of people. Bigots and connivers among these groups of people have been pitching one group against others for centuries before the founding of USA itself. This article reminds me of some articles that used to pop out on student publications among us in the late 1960’s and early 1970’s. They used to come with headlines like ‘On the questions of imperialism’ and ‘Some notes on Imperialism’. They all assailed the USA for every problem the old country was facing. They presented USA as an imperialist that controls the economy. Then I started asking questions like ‘What is the name of a US company(companies) that control the economy?’ That was so naive on my part but to this day nobody was able to give me one name. The answer I received then was a look with angry looking bloodshot eyes. It is all the same typical lame excuse. The solutions are not in DC, Minnesota, Toronto, Tennessee, Oslo or Down Under. It is right in the hands of the should-know-betters of the country itself. USA is not the one that created OLA, Fano, TPLF or any other warlike groups. US soldiers were not the ones that committed gross war crimes in Tigray, Afar, Amhara and Oromia regions. All these were committed by 100% Ethiopian citizens. What we should is to look at ourselves in the mirror and say enough is enough. Enough with battle cries zerraafs, gerersaas and laloyes and head to the dialogue tables. Stop making excuses. Btw, those who used to blame Good Ole USA for the ills haunting the Horn of Africa had to seek refuge in USA and its allied countries when Mengistu and Siad Barre were coming after their wise behind. But as always they still remain thankless souls. But there are others among us who erroneously accuse Good Ole USA for problems we created on ourselves. In short, it is all part of decades old ‘my dog ate my home work’ copout, lame excuse. USA was not the one who created Amharas, Tigres, Oromos, Afars, Somalis, Sidamas and more than 80 groups of people. Bigots and connivers among these groups of people have been pitching one group against others for centuries before the founding of USA itself. This article reminds me of some articles that used to pop out on student publications among us in the late 1960’s and early 1970’s. They used to come with headlines like ‘On the questions of imperialism’ and ‘Some notes on Imperialism’. They all assailed the USA for every problem the old country was facing. They presented USA as an imperialist that controls the economy. Then I started asking questions like ‘What is the name of a US company(companies) that control the economy?’ That was so naive on my part but to this day nobody was able to give me one name. The answer I received then was a look with angry looking bloodshot eyes. It is all the same typical lame excuse. The solutions are not in DC, Minnesota, Toronto, Tennessee, Oslo or Down Under. It is right in the hands of the should-know-betters of the country itself. USA is not the one that created OLA, Fano, TPLF or any other warlike groups. US soldiers were not the ones that committed gross war crimes in Tigray, Afar, Amhara and Oromia regions. All these were committed by 100% Ethiopian citizens. What we should is to look at ourselves in the mirror and say enough is enough. Enough with battle cries zerraafs, gerersaas and laloyes and head to the dialogue tables. Stop making excuses. Btw, those who used to blame Good Ole USA for the ills haunting the Horn of Africa had to seek refuge in USA and its allied countries when Mengistu and Siad Barre were coming after their wise behind. But as always they still remain thankless souls. Comments are closed.

Dr. Debretsion Confirms TPLF-Eritrea Dubai Meetings

Dr. Debretsion Confirms TPLF-Eritrea Dubai Meetings Discussion between TPLF and Eritrean Authorities Dr. Debretsion Gebremichael, Chairman of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), announced that leaders of the TPLF and Eritrea have held informal discussions. Speaking at a press conference in Mekelle last Tuesday, he revealed that the first meeting between the TPLF and Eritrean officials took place six months ago in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. In the same briefing, the President of the Tigray Interim Regional Administration, Mr. Reda, confirmed that he represented the TPLF during the Dubai discussions. Dr. Debretsion further mentioned that subsequent meetings have been held with Eritrean leaders, though he did not specify the dates or locations of these gatherings. The TPLF’s primary goal, according to Dr. Debretsion, is to foster peace with all neighboring entities, including the Eritrean government and the Fano forces. He emphasized that the TPLF Executive Committee and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed have endorsed the discussions with Eritrean officials. 1 COMMENT Ittu Aba Farda September 12, 2024 At 6:16 am Peace by all peaceful means necessary. Such face to face dialogue between two neighbors should always be encouraged. If not for some man made artificial boundaries, the peoples of Eritrea and Ethiopia are the same human beings sharing the same languages, religions and culture. That includes the upright and exceedingly smart people of Djibouti and Somalia. In ideal world these countries are not to be ruled by 4 different regimes. The only reason they now chose to go separate ways is due to the divisive poison planted and left behind by colonialists. The solutions to the nagging issues that have been bedeviling them are right there in their own hands. All they have to do is have honest dialogues. It may take time but peace and unity are possible with these upright neighbors. Insha’Allah!!! Peace by all peaceful means necessary. Such face to face dialogue between two neighbors should always be encouraged. If not for some man made artificial boundaries, the peoples of Eritrea and Ethiopia are the same human beings sharing the same languages, religions and culture. That includes the upright and exceedingly smart people of Djibouti and Somalia. In ideal world these countries are not to be ruled by 4 different regimes. The only reason they now chose to go separate ways is due to the divisive poison planted and left behind by colonialists. The solutions to the nagging issues that have been bedeviling them are right there in their own hands. All they have to do is have honest dialogues. It may take time but peace and unity are possible with these upright neighbors. Insha’Allah!!! Comments are closed.

Ministry of Education Announces 12th Grade National Exam Results: 5.4% Pass Rate

Ministry of Education Announces 12th Grade National Exam Results: 5.4% Pass Rate Ministry of Education Announces 12th Grade National Exam Results: 5.4% Pass Rate, Addis Ababa Leads Success The Ministry of Education has announced the results of the 12th-grade national exam, with 36,409 students successfully passing out of the 684,205 who took the exam during the 2016 school year, according to Education Minister Birhanu Nega (Professor). In his statement today, the Minister confirmed that students could check their results starting from 12:00 AM. He also emphasized that the violation of exam rules across all subjects was lower compared to the previous year. Minister Birhanu highlighted the strong performance of boarding schools, although 1,363 schools did not see any students pass. The national average score among students was 29.76 points, while the highest score this year was an impressive 675 out of 700, marking a new high for the country. Additionally, 575 was noted as the highest score achieved out of 600 in a specific subject test. With a 5.4% pass rate overall, the Addis Ababa City Administration led the success rate, followed by the Harari and Oromia regions, which also performed well. The Minister acknowledged that regions across the country showed improvement compared to last year’s results. Students can check their Grade 12 results for 2024, which are expected to be released on September 10, 2024, through the NEAEA portal at Portal: https://result.eaes.et Telegram Bot: https://t.me/EAESbot SMS: You can check your result by sending an SMS to 6284. Type your roll number (e.g., R1234567) prefixed with the letter ‘R’. Standard SMS fees will apply as charged by Ethio Telecom. This service, provided by the Educational Assessment and Examination Services (EAES), allows students to view their exam results from the Ethiopian academic year 2014 EC.

U.S. Extends Sanctions on Ethiopia, Keeping AGOA Trade Privileges Suspended

U.S. Extends Sanctions on Ethiopia, Keeping AGOA Trade Privileges Suspended On Friday, the White House released a statement confirming the continuation of the National Emergency in Ethiopia. The U.S. government remains focused on the ongoing conflict in northern Ethiopia, emphasizing that the situation continues to pose a threat to regional stability and U.S. foreign policy interests. The White House statement highlighted the gravity of the situation:“The situation in and in relation to northern Ethiopia, which has been marked by activities that threaten the peace, security, and stability of Ethiopia and the greater Horn of Africa region, continues to pose an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security and foreign policy of the United States.” The U.S. first declared a National Emergency in Ethiopia in September 2021, following Executive Order 14046, due to the ongoing conflict in northern Ethiopia. Despite a peace agreement brokered by the African Union in Pretoria, human rights violations and instability persist, prompting the U.S. to extend the sanctions for another year. Impact of U.S. Sanctions on Ethiopia The continuation of these sanctions comes at a critical time for Ethiopia. The country is navigating both internal and external challenges, with the U.S. sanctions adding economic pressure on top of ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve human rights concerns. Notably, the sanctions affect Ethiopia’s trade privileges under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which once allowed the country to export goods to the U.S. duty-free, generating over $100 million annually. Although Ethiopia has been working to lift the AGOA ban and restore trade relations, the ongoing sanctions reflect Washington’s stance that Ethiopia must address human rights violations and restore peace in the region before those privileges can be reinstated. U.S. National Emergency Policy in Effect The National Emergency Implementation Policy enables the U.S. president to take direct action when events in a foreign country threaten U.S. security and foreign policy. This policy continues to guide Washington’s approach to the situation in Ethiopia, underscoring the importance of regional stability in the Horn of Africa and its broader impact on U.S. interests. Below is the full statement from the White House regarding the continuation of the National Emergency in Ethiopia: Press Release: Notice on the Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to Ethiopia “On September 17, 2021, by Executive Order 14046, I declared a national emergency pursuant to the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) to deal with the unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security and foreign policy of the United States constituted by the situation in and in relation to northern Ethiopia. The situation in and in relation to northern Ethiopia, which has been marked by activities that threaten the peace, security, and stability of Ethiopia and the greater Horn of Africa region, continues to pose an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security and foreign policy of the United States. For this reason, the national emergency declared in Executive Order 14046 of September 17, 2021, must continue in effect beyond September 17, 2024. Therefore, in accordance with section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)), I am continuing for one year the national emergency declared in Executive Order 14046 with respect to Ethiopia. This notice shall be published in the Federal Register and transmitted to the Congress. JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR. With the U.S. sanctions extended for another year, Ethiopia faces a complex geopolitical landscape. The road ahead remains uncertain as Ethiopia works to address these challenges while seeking to restore peace and stability in the region. 2 COMMENTS Ittu Aba Farda September 9, 2024 At 7:45 am Thank you Mr. President! This is the right thing to do because war mongers are still on the prowl to ignite another bloody and senseless conflict which had already caused the deaths of hundreds of thousands and destruction in billions of dollars. I hope the ICC will follow Good Ole USA’s lead and press war criminal charges on those who committed war crimes. May God Continue To Bless The United States of America!!! Thank you Mr. President! This is the right thing to do because war mongers are still on the prowl to ignite another bloody and senseless conflict which had already caused the deaths of hundreds of thousands and destruction in billions of dollars. I hope the ICC will follow Good Ole USA’s lead and press war criminal charges on those who committed war crimes. May God Continue To Bless The United States of America!!! Ittu Aba Farda September 10, 2024 At 9:46 am Why incur all these unplanned expenses when I have the ultimate solution for you? 1) Hand over the entire eastern territory of the old country from Dewele to Awash River and from Moyale to Awasa to Somalia. 2) Issue a monetary reparation worth 250 billion in US dollars to Eritrea for the war waged by Ethiopia at Keren in 1941. In addition, Ethiopia should hand over all coffee, oil seeds, hide exports and operations of Ethiopian Airlines to Eritrea for the next 10 years. Also move all factories from Ethiopia to Eritrea and Somalia by January 2025. 3) All Amharas and Oromos must be expelled from Ethiopia by no later than 2025. Amharas can move to original home in Hadramaut and Oromos to Mombasa. That is it. See how simple it is? You guys are just being so silly. Why incur all these unplanned expenses when I have the ultimate solution for you? 1) Hand over the entire eastern territory of the old country from Dewele to Awash River and from Moyale to Awasa to Somalia. 2) Issue a monetary reparation worth 250 billion in US dollars to Eritrea for the war waged by Ethiopia at Keren in 1941. In addition, Ethiopia should hand over all coffee, oil seeds, hide exports and operations of Ethiopian Airlines to Eritrea for the next 10 years. Also move all factories from Ethiopia to Eritrea and Somalia by January 2025. 3) All Amharas and Oromos must be expelled from Ethiopia by no later than 2025. Amharas can move to original home in Hadramaut and Oromos to Mombasa. That is it. See how simple it is? You guys are just being so silly. Comments are closed.

Ethiopian Air Force on High Alert Amid Somalia Tensions: Defending Eastern Airspace

Ethiopian Air Force on High Alert Amid Somalia Tensions: Defending Eastern Airspace Following the recent military activities of Egypt and Somalia in the region, the Ethiopian Air Force announced that it is actively guarding the eastern airspace. Colonel Dereje Bushre, the commander of the air division, stated that the Ethiopian Air Force is at a heightened level of readiness to fulfill its national duty and mission. The commander also noted that the 3rd Air Division is a defense and support group actively protecting the country and the eastern airspace. In connection with this, it was also highlighted that the Eastern Command of the Federal Ministry of Defense is on full military alert. “They are fully prepared to sacrifice their lives to defend the trust placed in them by protecting against forces attempting to invade our country and carry out terrorist attacks,” the national defense announced.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Arrives in Beijing for FOCAC Summit

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Arrives in Beijing for FOCAC Summit Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed arrived in Beijing this morning to participate in the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit, according to the Office of the Prime Minister. The summit, taking place from September 4-6, brings together several African heads of state and government who have already convened in the Chinese capital. The FOCAC summit will focus on strengthening China-Africa relations, with particular attention to development initiatives across the continent. Key topics on the agenda include economic cooperation, infrastructure development, trade partnerships, and investment opportunities aimed at fostering mutual growth between China and African nations. China has been a significant partner in Africa’s development over the years, with its investments playing a vital role in infrastructure, technology, and other sectors. The summit is expected to provide a platform for further discussions on collaborative projects that could contribute to the long-term economic growth of participating African countries. As discussions unfold, outcomes from the summit are likely to shape future engagement between China and African nations, with a focus on shared interests in sustainable development and economic progress. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed arrived in Beijing this morning to participate in the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit, according to the Office of the Prime Minister. The summit, taking place from September 4-6, brings together several African heads of state and government who have already convened in the Chinese capital. The FOCAC summit will focus on strengthening China-Africa relations, with particular attention to development initiatives across the continent. Key topics on the agenda include economic cooperation, infrastructure development, trade partnerships, and investment opportunities aimed at fostering mutual growth between China and African nations. China has been a significant partner in Africa’s development over the years, with its investments playing a vital role in infrastructure, technology, and other sectors. The summit is expected to provide a platform for further discussions on collaborative projects that could contribute to the long-term economic growth of participating African countries. As discussions unfold, outcomes from the summit are likely to shape future engagement between China and African nations, with a focus on shared interests in sustainable development and economic progress.

Djibouti Offers Ethiopia Management of a Port to Ease Regional Tensions

Djibouti Offers Ethiopia Management of a Port to Ease Regional Tensions Djibouti’s Foreign Minister, Mahmoud Ali Yusuf, has revealed that his country has proposed a significant offer to Ethiopia in a bid to reduce tensions in the Horn of Africa. In a special interview with BBC Focus on Africa, the foreign minister discussed the possibility of Ethiopia directly managing one of Djibouti’s ports. Access to the Sea for Ethiopia Foreign Minister Yusuf stated that Djibouti has offered Ethiopia the option to “fully manage” the Tajura port, which is located hundreds of kilometers away from Ethiopia. This proposal is intended to alleviate Ethiopia’s longstanding issue of being landlocked and lacking direct access to a seaport. The foreign minister emphasized that this move could help ease tensions with Somalia, which have arisen due to Ethiopia’s sea gate communication agreement with Somaliland, a region that has declared itself an independent country. The Proposal and Its Strategic Importance The proposal includes allowing Ethiopia to manage not only the port of Tajura but also a newly constructed corridor that would enable Ethiopia to access the sea. This offer was reportedly presented to Ethiopia by Djibouti’s President, Omar Guleh. However, the foreign minister did not provide detailed information on which government body would handle the agreement, when it would be implemented, or the specific terms of the proposed port management deal. Diplomatic Implications and Future Discussions Despite the lack of specifics, the minister mentioned that the proposal would be a topic of discussion between the leaders of Ethiopia and Djibouti at the upcoming China-Africa summit. This development comes as Ethiopia has been using Tajura port, which was constructed at a cost of $90 million, for the past four years. The port is strategically important for exporting potash reserves, as well as coal and iron cargoes from the Afar region. Regional Tensions and Economic Considerations Ethiopia, a landlocked nation, currently relies heavily on the port of Djibouti for its import and export trade, costing the country over $1 billion annually. The signing of an agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland, which has declared independence, has further strained Ethiopia’s relations with Somalia, creating diplomatic tension. The foreign minister urged that both countries should resolve their differences through dialogue, with the support of Djibouti, Kenya, and other regional players. Broader Security Concerns The minister also expressed concerns about the broader security implications for the region. He highlighted the ongoing threat from the Yemeni Houthi armed group in the Gulf of Aden and Bab al-Mandab province, stressing that unresolved tensions in neighboring countries pose a significant threat to Djibouti, despite its stability. He called on both Ethiopia and Somalia to refrain from inflammatory statements and actions that could escalate tensions. Military Cooperation and External Influences Adding to the complexity of the situation, Egypt, which has been in a longstanding dispute with Ethiopia over the construction of the Great Renaissance Dam, has signed a military cooperation agreement with Somalia. This move, which includes the delivery of weapons to Somalia, has further heightened tensions in the Horn of Africa. Ethiopia has warned that it will not remain passive in the face of actions that could destabilize the region and accused the Somali government of collaborating with foreign forces that seek to create instability. The Somaliland Controversy The memorandum of understanding that Ethiopia signed with Somaliland to secure a 20-kilometer coastline has particularly angered Somalia, leading to significant regional tensions. In response, Somaliland officials have suggested that Ethiopia could be the first country in the world to recognize Somaliland as an independent nation. This has led Somalia to sever diplomatic ties with Ethiopia and bring the issue before the UN Security Council, labeling it as an invasion and a violation of its sovereignty. The situation in the Horn of Africa remains delicate, with multiple nations involved in a complex web of diplomatic, economic, and military interests. Djibouti’s offer to allow Ethiopia to manage the Tajura port could be a key step in easing tensions, but much will depend on the forthcoming discussions and the broader regional context. 1 COMMENT Ittu Aba Farda August 31, 2024 At 10:04 pm This could be taken as an attractive offer. My question was, is the port ready to use facility or does it have to be built up? If it has to be developed, who is gonna pay for it? Is it a lease and if so for how long? I hope the dear editors of this esteemed website will use their investigative prowess and find out the details of the offer. I still see this as an attractive offer by the dear neighbors who have been able to get their house in order since their independence. Extremely wise people whe were so smart in deciding to going it alone in 1977. The did not make a fatal decision that their neighbors to the East did in 1960. This could be taken as an attractive offer. My question was, is the port ready to use facility or does it have to be built up? If it has to be developed, who is gonna pay for it? Is it a lease and if so for how long? I hope the dear editors of this esteemed website will use their investigative prowess and find out the details of the offer. I still see this as an attractive offer by the dear neighbors who have been able to get their house in order since their independence. Extremely wise people whe were so smart in deciding to going it alone in 1977. The did not make a fatal decision that their neighbors to the East did in 1960. Comments are closed.

Ethiopia Appoints Teshome Shunde as New Ambassador to Its Consulate in Somaliland

Ethiopia Appoints Teshome Shunde as New Ambassador to Its Consulate in Somaliland Ethiopia has appointed Teshome Shunde as the new ambassador to its consulate in Somaliland, a region it considers an autonomous territory. The Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced this decision, confirming that Ambassador Shunde will be stationed at the consulate office in Hargeisa, Somaliland. In a statement to the press, Ambassador Taye Atske Selassie, Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, acknowledged the appointment. Although the minister did not provide specific details, other officials from the ministry confirmed that Teshome Shunde, who previously served in Kenya, has been appointed to lead the Ethiopian consulate in Somaliland. Reports from Somaliland indicate that Ambassador Teshome Shunde has already presented his credentials to President Muse Bihi of Somaliland, marking the official start of his diplomatic mission. Ambassador Teshome Shunde’s appointment follows a tradition of Ethiopia maintaining a consulate in Somaliland, where diplomatic representatives have held the position of full ambassador. This appointment also reflects Ethiopia’s ongoing diplomatic engagement with Somaliland, a region that has been self-governing for several years but has not been internationally recognized as an independent state. Ethiopia’s consulate in Somaliland has historically been led by special envoys, and until recently, this position was held by Ambassador Dalil Kedr. His appointment as a full ambassador was confirmed by President Sahle-Work Zewde of Ethiopia last June during a broader reshuffle of diplomatic posts within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Ambassador Lencho Bati Denied Accreditation by the U.S. Government

Ambassador Lencho Bati Denied Accreditation by the U.S. Government Thursday, August 29, 2024: Reports indicate that Ambassador Lencho Bati, who was recently appointed as Ethiopia’s ambassador to the United States, has been denied accreditation by the U.S. government. This decision comes just weeks after Ambassador Lencho was recalled from his previous post in Saudi Arabia and selected to represent Ethiopia in Washington, D.C. According to sources, the U.S. government has requested that Ambassador Lencho return to Ethiopia, stating that they would not accept his appointment. The reason behind this decision is reportedly linked to past legal issues that Ambassador Lencho faced while living in the United States years ago. Although details of these allegations have not been disclosed, the sources suggest that the matters are part of public records in the U.S. “The Americans have informed the Ethiopian government that they do not wish to have the ambassador serve in their country due to these past legal issues,” the sources said. So far, there has been no official confirmation or explanation from the Ethiopian government regarding this matter. The U.S. is known to have stringent criteria for accepting foreign ambassadors, and in several instances, they have declined to accredit diplomats from various countries. This development adds a new layer of complexity to Ethiopia’s diplomatic relations with the U.S., particularly at a time when both countries are navigating sensitive political and economic discussions. 1 COMMENT Ittu Aba Farda August 29, 2024 At 7:50 pm It’s alright. He will become the Prime Minister of the new Republic of Wallagaa when his OLA liberates Oromia. For now, they should make him an ambassador to the despots joint in Moscow, Beijing or better yet in Villa Mogadishu. But not in Good Ole USA, never!!! It’s alright. He will become the Prime Minister of the new Republic of Wallagaa when his OLA liberates Oromia. For now, they should make him an ambassador to the despots joint in Moscow, Beijing or better yet in Villa Mogadishu. But not in Good Ole USA, never!!! Comments are closed.