ADDIS ABABA — The Federal Law and Justice Institute has declared the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Ethiopia and Somaliland as legitimate based on legal grounds and in accordance with international practices. The announcement came during a workshop that convened stakeholders from Ethiopia’s Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, House of Peoples’ Representatives, and House of Federation, along with other legal bodies.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, the MoU, which was signed by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi on January 1, 2024, in Addis Ababa, establishes a framework for a multisectoral partnership between the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and Somaliland. This partnership is notably aimed at facilitating Ethiopia’s access to the sea, thereby diversifying its seaport options on the Red Sea.
Ambassador Degife Bula, the Director General for the Federal Law and Justice Institute, highlighted in his keynote address the critical nature of the MoU for Ethiopia’s economic aspirations, particularly its quest for seaport access. He underscored the mutual benefits envisaged by the agreement and addressed concerns raised in some quarters as contrary to international practices. The Director General emphasized that the MoU represents a peaceful, cooperative approach to Ethiopia’s legitimate pursuit of port access, reinforcing its alignment with international norms.