Somalia has refused to accept an agreement between Somaliland and Ethiopia regarding port access, stating that the deal lacks legal authority.

The rejection came after an emergency cabinet meeting held on Tuesday. Although Somaliland separated from Somalia in 1991, it is not recognized as an independent state on the international stage. The memorandum of understanding, signed by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi, granted Ethiopia 50-year access to the port of Berbera and permission to construct a naval base.

However, Mogadishu dismissed the agreement, emphasizing that no deal can be considered valid without Somalia’s approval.

In protest, Somalia also recalled its ambassador to Addis Ababa. The Ethiopian actions were condemned by Somalia as a violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre expressed determination to protect Somalia’s land, sea, and air, asserting that no one can infringe upon any part of the country. Somalia has called upon the UN, the Arab League, and the African Union to support its decision.

The deal entails leasing 20km of sea access to Addis Ababa for 50 years and the construction of a military base on the coast.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed stated on X (formerly Twitter) that the port agreement officially recognizes the Republic of Somaliland, while Somaliland grants Ethiopia naval and commercial sea access on a lease for 50 years. In other news, starting from 1 January, Ethiopia, along with Egypt, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Iran, officially joined the BRICS+ group, which initially consisted of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.