Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has told parliament that his country 'does not wish any harm' on Somalia, amid a dispute over a deal with the breakaway region of Somaliland. The comments come after Somalia accused Ethiopia of trying to annex its territory to gain sea access.
Last month, Ethiopia signed a memorandum of understanding with Somaliland, which Somalia considers part of its territory. The deal would grant Ethiopia commercial and naval access to the coast in exchange for potential recognition of Somaliland's independence, though Addis Ababa has not confirmed this.
Somalia has described the agreement as an act of aggression, with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud calling on youths to prepare for the country's defence. He has also said he would only negotiate with Ethiopia if the deal is withdrawn. Tens of thousands have protested in Mogadishu against the pact.
Diplomats have urged calm and emphasised the need to respect Somalia's sovereignty. In his parliamentary address, Abiy stressed the historical ties between the two nations, noting Ethiopian forces have fought alongside Somali troops against the al-Shabab militant group. He blamed 'some forces' for trying to incite conflict.
Abiy has previously described sea access as an 'existential issue' for landlocked Ethiopia. He argued that the deal would benefit the entire region. Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has not been recognised by any country.
