ADDIS ABABA—Ethiopia and Somaliland have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that promises to extend benefits beyond their borders, aiming to reinforce Ethiopia's dedication to regional stability and economic integration, as stated by Ethiopian Ambassadors to Canada, the US, and China.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, Ethiopian Ambassador to Canada, Fitsum Arega, highlighted Ethiopia's substantial investments in infrastructure that not only support its own growth but also facilitate the development of its neighbors and the broader region. These efforts align with the objectives of Agenda 2063, particularly in terms of economic integration.
Ambassador Arega elaborated on Ethiopia's collaborative initiatives with neighboring countries in the areas of railway connections, roads, and the provision of essential services such as potable water and electricity. He emphasized the historic nature of the MOU with Somaliland, viewing it as a continuation of Ethiopia's longstanding efforts to foster regional integration for mutual benefit. The agreement, he assured, poses no threat to any nation and is expected to be recognized as a step toward collective growth and cooperation in the region.
The discussion further touched upon Ethiopia's aspirations to leverage the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement (AfCFTA) for mutual economic development and growth across Africa. Ambassador Arega projected that Ethiopia's access to additional sea ports, including those in Djibouti, Berbera, Lamu, and within the Red Sea, would be instrumental in enhancing the region's connectivity and infrastructure, benefiting the entire region.
From the US, Ambassador Seleshi Bekele pointed out Ethiopia's crucial need for sea access, given its status as one of Africa's major countries and its position as the continent's second-most populous nation. He underlined the potential benefits to neighboring countries from Ethiopia's advancements in various sectors, including power supply and transport, which create a fertile ground for economic and regional integration.
Ethiopia's contribution to peace and stability in the region was also highlighted, with Ambassador Bekele stating that Ethiopia's efforts extend beyond mere declarations, involving tangible sacrifices to maintain the security of the region. He called for a cooperative rather than antagonistic approach among neighboring countries to foster collective prosperity.
Lastly, Ethiopia's Ambassador to China, Tefera Derbew, underscored the importance of sustainable and reliable port access for Ethiopia's rapidly growing economy. He argued that the MOU between Somaliland and Ethiopia would not only benefit Ethiopia but also its neighbors, aligning with the goals of the AfCFTA to integrate the economies of African nations through shared aspirations and complementary actions. Ambassador Derbew called for regional support for Ethiopia's initiatives aimed at mutual economic development and the prosperity of the region.