Ethiopia is genuine partner to Somaliland, Opposition party says

HARGEISA, Somalia - Somaliland's opposition has backed Ethiopia's relationship with the breakaway region, arguing that Hargeisa and Addis Ababa have closely worked together over the years for mutual benefits, in the middle of challenges within the Horn of Africa.

Mohamed Abdullahi Omar, a member of the Waddani party, told Addis Standard that the party does not have any objection to the deal signed between Somaliland and Ethiopia, terming the Horn of Africa nation as a genuine partner.

However, Omar called for disclosure of the details of the MoU, criticizing Musa Bihi Abdi's administration of putting it under wraps instead of sharing the details with members of the public for scrutiny as required in the law.

"Unfortunately, the current Somaliland administration has not shared the details of the MoU with the opposition nor the parliament, yet we are the majority in the parliament," he said. "Once those details are brought to our attention, we will make an informed view based on Somaliland’s long-term national interest and the principles of good neighborhood relations."

Despite the details of the MoU not being public, the Waddani party official said the opposition is confident that the relationship between Somaliland and Ethiopia remains consistent and solid, adding that there is nothing wrong with Somaliland signing agreements with neighbouring countries.

"Our party is confident that Ethiopia is genuine in its relationship with Somaliland, and we look forward to further cooperation in many areas, including trade, security, and energy," he said.

"As always, Somaliland has the right to reach an agreement with any country. We have in the past signed bilateral agreements with other nations. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a case in point." "The guiding principles are that the treaty serves the interest of the people of Somaliland and that it has to be approved by the parliament once the government of the day makes the case," he added.

Somaliland, he added, will benefit more if Ethiopia starts making use of the port of Berbera. On Somalia's protest, the Waddani official said Mogadishu should first handle the Al-Shabaab instead of going tough on Ethiopia.

"Somalia has got a lot to focus on now including its internal problems such as lawlessness and eliminating terrorist groups that are causing chaos and mayhem," he said.

"Ethiopia’s pursuit of port access is a legitimate interest and our Berbera port is precisely built for that purpose. It is meant to be a regional commercial hub. We welcome Ethiopia’s use of our port. Under our leadership, these ties will grow further."

Somalia accuses Ethiopia of annexation plans following the agreement, which, if implemented, would see Ethiopia get 20 kilometers of access to the Red Sea. Mogadishu maintains that Addis Ababa must withdraw the agreement before any negotiations occur.

GAROWE ONLINE