Somalia’s PM Tells Ethiopia: We Have the Right to Defend Our Territorial Integrity

Somalia’s Prime Minister asserts the country’s right to defend its territorial integrity in a message to Ethiopia, emphasizing national sovereignty amid rising tensions. Learn more about the diplomatic exchange.

In a speech to the UN General Assembly on Friday, Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre criticised Ethiopia over a coastal lease agreement it signed with the self-declared Republic of Somaliland earlier this year.

Somaliland’s independence has not been recognised internationally and Somalia has denounced the deal as a violation of its sovereignty.

On Friday, Prime Minister Abdi Barre stated that the ports of Somaliland have consistently been open to Ethiopia’s legitimate commercial endeavors, demonstrating our dedication to regional trade and collaboration. However, Ethiopia’s aggressive manoeuvres, including its controversial agreement with one of the regional governments, undermine Somali sovereignty, encourage separatist movements and threaten our national unity. We must not allow the use of force against the Shabaab.

Earlier this year, Somalia expelled the Ethiopian ambassador over the conflict, raising diplomatic tensions in the region.