Ethiopia has expressed dissatisfaction with the global reaction to the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Somaliland, amidst escalating tensions in the Horn of Africa.

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Ethiopia has expressed dissatisfaction with the global reaction to the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Somaliland, amidst escalating tensions in the Horn of Africa.

In the midst of escalating tensions in the Horn of Africa, Ethiopia finds itself at the center of international scrutiny over its recent memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Somaliland. Redwan Hussien, National Security Advisor to Ethiopia's P

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In the midst of escalating tensions in the Horn of Africa, Ethiopia finds itself at the center of international scrutiny over its recent memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Somaliland. Redwan Hussien, National Security Advisor to Ethiopia's Prime Minister, has accused certain international actors of harboring animosity towards Ethiopia under the guise of supporting Somalia.

Hussien emphasized the discrepancy between the claimed support for Somalia and the lack of substantial assistance during its time of need. He argued that these actors are not driven by genuine friendship towards Somalia but rather by their hostility towards Ethiopia. This statement follows a wave of international criticism aimed at the MoU, which grants Ethiopia access to a 20-kilometer stretch of Somaliland's coastline for the establishment of a marine force base.

Demeke Mekonnen, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Ethiopia, confirmed during a recent meeting with the Ethiopian diplomatic corps that the administration is facing increasing international pressure to annul its pact with Somaliland. Despite the mounting pressure, Ethiopia rejected the Arab League's demand to annul the agreement, with Foreign Affairs Minister Misganu Arega characterizing it as unwarranted interference in Ethiopia's internal affairs.

The agreement, which involves naval access in exchange for potential recognition of Somaliland, has raised concerns and skepticism from neighboring countries and international organizations. Critics fear that this act could destabilize the geopolitically sensitive region. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi has voiced strong opposition, aligning Egypt with Somalia in the dispute and urging Ethiopia to seek port access through diplomatic means in Somalia and Djibouti.

This controversy adds another layer to the existing tensions between Egypt and Ethiopia over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) on the Nile River. The unresolved dispute further complicates regional dynamics.

Somaliland, strategically located by the Gulf of Aden, declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but lacks international recognition. Somalia perceives the agreement with Ethiopia as a violation of its sovereignty and international law, a sentiment echoed by Somali President Sheikh Mohamud.

The Ethiopian government's purported commitment to regional peace and security is now under scrutiny for potentially exacerbating tensions in the Horn of Africa. Hussien's recent comments, criticizing unnamed international actors, suggest a defensive stance by Ethiopia in response to mounting international criticism.

The lack of transparency surrounding the MoU's specifics, particularly regarding Ethiopian naval access and the extent of recognition for Somaliland, adds complexity to the regional diplomatic landscape. This opacity raises concerns about potential implications for Somalia's sovereignty and the broader stability of the Horn of Africa. The situation underscores the growing complexity and sensitivity of regional geopolitics.