Somalia: Somali President Slams Ethiopia-Somaliland Sea MoU on Independence Day Mogadishu, Somalia – Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has strongly condemned the recently signed maritime agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland, calling it a “blatant violation of Somalia’s sovereignty” and a “provocative act.” The agreement, signed on Somalia’s Independence Day, grants Ethiopia access to a portion of the Red Sea coastline currently claimed by Somaliland, a self-proclaimed state that has not been recognized by the international community. In a televised address, President Mohamud said the MoU “risks destabilizing the region” and “ignores the rights and interests of the Somali people.” He accused Ethiopia of “meddling in our affairs” and “trying to undermine our territorial integrity.” Somaliland authorities have defended the agreement, stating that it is in line with their aspirations for independence and that it will boost economic development. However, Somalia’s Foreign Ministry has rejected this claim, calling the agreement “illegal and null and void.” The maritime agreement has sparked outrage in Somalia, with opposition leaders and civil society groups condemning the government’s failure to prevent it. Some have accused President Mohamud’s administration of being “weak” and “incompetent.” The agreement has also drawn criticism from international observers. The United States has expressed concern that the MoU could “exacerbate tensions” and hinder efforts to achieve peace and stability in the region. The African Union has also urged both parties to resolve the issue through dialogue and diplomacy. The maritime agreement has added to the complex political situation in Somalia and the Horn of Africa. It has also raised concerns about the potential for conflict between Ethiopia and Somalia, two neighboring countries with a history of territorial disputes. Analysts believe that the agreement could further fuel tensions between the Somali government and Somaliland, which has been seeking international recognition for its independence for decades. It remains to be seen how this latest development will impact the ongoing efforts to resolve the political crisis in Somalia and achieve lasting peace and stability.President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia delivered a speech on June 26th, commemorating the independence day of the northern regions of the country. In his address, President Mohamud condemned the Ethiopian government’s violation of Somalia’s independence, emphasizing that the agreement between Muse Bihi, the leader of Somaliland, and the Prime Minister of Ethiopia undermines Somali nationalism and unity.President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia delivered a speech on June 26th, commemorating the independence day of the northern regions of the country. In his address, President Mohamud condemned the Ethiopian government’s violation of Somalia’s independence, emphasizing that the agreement between Muse Bihi, the leader of Somaliland, and the Prime Minister of Ethiopia undermines Somali nationalism and unity. The President stated that Somalia opposes the appropriation of Somali lands and highlighted the importance of maintaining sovereignty. He praised the struggle of the Northern regions for freedom and urged Somalis to remain united and independent. President Mohamud emphasized the government’s commitment to protecting the country’s sovereignty and existence. The event was attended by government officials, parliamentarians, politicians, and other dignitaries. The President’s speech reflected the challenges Somalia faces in maintaining its sovereignty and unity, as well as the government’s commitment to addressing these issues.Somali President Criticizes Ethiopia-Somaliland Maritime Deal On Independence Day, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud denounced the maritime agreement signed between Ethiopia and Somaliland. In his address to the nation, President Mohamud stated that the deal violated Somalia’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. He emphasized that Somaliland is an integral part of Somalia and has no authority to enter into agreements without consent from the federal government. The maritime agreement, signed on April 14, grants Ethiopia access to two ports in Somaliland: Berbera and Zeila. It also allows Ethiopia to use Somaliland’s waters for economic activities. The Somali government views the deal as a violation of international law and a disregard for the unity and sovereignty of Somalia. It has demanded that Ethiopia withdraw from the agreement immediately. Somaliland, a self-declared independent state in northwestern Somalia, has maintained its own administration and military since 1991. However, it is not internationally recognized as an independent nation. The Ethiopia-Somaliland maritime deal has drawn criticism from both the Somali government and other neighboring countries. Kenya has expressed concerns that the agreement could destabilize the region. President Mohamud stressed that the Somali government will continue to pursue all legal and diplomatic avenues to protect its territorial integrity. He urged the international community to support Somalia’s efforts to maintain unity and sovereignty. The maritime deal has added another layer of tension to the already complex political landscape in the Horn of Africa. Somalia is still recovering from decades of civil war and faces ongoing security challenges, including the threat from al-Shabaab.