Hargeisa 2 January, 2024-(MoF)-His Excellency President Muse Bihi Abdiand His Excellency Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed Ali signed a Memorandum ofUnderstanding (MoU) in Addis Ababa today. This historic agreement ensuresEthiopia’s access to the sea for their naval forces, reciprocated by formal recognitiorof the Republic of Somaliland, marking this as a significant diplomatic milestone forour countryIn his address after the signing, H.E. President Muse Bihi Abdi emphasized theconscientious responsibility of every president to act in the best interests of his people.Acknowledging Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed’s request for seaport access for theirNaval forces, President Muse Bihi Abdi expressed that Somaliland endured a longquest for official recognition from Ethiopia.Today, it is with immense pride, I announce the mutually beneficial agreementbetween Somaliland and Ethiopia. In exchange for 20km sea access for the EthiopianNaval forces,leased for a period of 50 years, Ethiopia will formally recognize theRepublic of Somaliland, setting a precedent as the first nation to extend internationalrecognition to our country.” said H.E. President Muse Bihi Abdi.It is crucial to note that the leased sea access underscores the cooperative spirit andstrategic partnership established through this diplomatic accord.
