HARGEISA, Somaliland (Horn Post) — Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Somaliland H.E Abdirahman Dahir Aden has reaffirmed that there has been no change in Somaliland’s position regarding the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with Ethiopia in 2024, signaling continued openness to dialogue on issues of mutual interest, including Ethiopia’s pursuit of sea access.
In an interview with Ethiopia’s The Reporter newspaper, the minister said Somaliland’s policy toward the agreement has remained unchanged since President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi “Irro” assumed office.
“No, nothing has changed. We are always ready to discuss any matter that serves the interests of both sides,” Aden said when asked about the status of the Somaliland-Ethiopia MoU.
“We understand the importance of sea access for Ethiopia. They are our brothers and neighbors. If there is a way we can assist, we are always prepared to engage with the Ethiopian government regarding their needs for a port or maritime access. We understand that this is an important issue for Ethiopia, and we remain open to dialogue,” he added.
The foreign minister of Somaliland also addressed the issue of Somaliland’s quest for international recognition, expressing confidence that Ethiopia would eventually recognize Somaliland as a stable and reliable partner.
“We believe Ethiopia has always been our friend and will continue to be our friend. We will never pressure Ethiopia to recognize Somaliland. However, I am confident that one day Ethiopia will see Somaliland as a trustworthy and stable partner, and that realization will ultimately lead to recognition,” Aden said.
The remarks come amid ongoing regional discussions over Ethiopia’s strategic interest in securing direct access to the sea, an issue that has become increasingly significant in Horn of Africa diplomacy.
Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Somaliland H.E Abdirahman Dahir Aden also firmly rejected reports suggesting that foreign military forces, including Ethiopian troops, are currently stationed in Somaliland.
“There have never been foreign troops in Somaliland, and there never will be,” he said, emphasizing that the Somaliland-Ethiopia border remains one of the most secure and stable frontiers in the region.
“As you know, the long border we share with Ethiopia is the safest border Ethiopia has with any neighboring country. There is no military presence from Somaliland or Ethiopia along that border, and there are no foreign forces operating on our territory,” the minister stated.
Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Somaliland H.E Abdirahman Dahir Aden further highlighted Somaliland’s state-building experience, noting that the territory developed its reconciliation process, democratic institutions and governance structures largely through its own efforts following the collapse of Somalia’s central government.
“We began our reconciliation process from scratch and built state institutions and a democratic system. We achieved this through our own determination. Ethiopia has consistently stood by Somaliland and provided support throughout that journey,” Aden said.
The comments underscore the close relationship between Somaliland and Ethiopia while signaling Hargeisa’s continued commitment to diplomatic engagement on regional economic and security issues, including maritime access, trade and future cooperation.
Prepared by:
Horn post staff
HARGEISA, Somaliland
