Monday 20, Jan ,2025 {HMC} Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro has pledged to strengthen ties with Ethiopia and Djibouti to improve Somaliland’s economic development, security, and regional cooperation.
President Irro praised Ethiopia as a vital neighbor and long-time ally at a Sunday Hargeisa event. “Ethiopia is a long-standing friend and an indispensable partner in economic development, security, and fostering our relationships within Africa,” Irro said. “It is crucial for us to enhance this relationship and its mutual benefits.”
President Irro also addressed the strained relations between Somaliland and Djibouti, which have been embroiled in a year-long dispute. He emphasized his administration’s commitment to rebuilding ties with Djibouti and advancing cooperation with the United States.
“We will strengthen our relations with Djibouti and the United States, two nations that have demonstrated significant interest in Somaliland,” he added.
A year ago, Somaliland and Ethiopia signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) granting Ethiopia a military base in the Gulf of Aden in exchange for Ethiopia’s formal recognition of Somaliland. However, the agreement was abandoned after Somalia and its international partners applied diplomatic pressure on Ethiopia. Subsequent negotiations in Ankara, Turkey, successfully resolved the year-long dispute, leading to the agreement’s cancellation.
Source Hiiraan online
