Ethiopia-Somaliland MoU underpins regional policy for shared development: Officials

Addis Ababa, January 10, 2024 (FBC) – High level government officials stated that the port deal Ethiopia reached with Somaliland underpins the regional policy anchored to the quest for shared development.

The Agriculture Minister, Girma Amentie (PhD) the port deal is in commensurate with Ethiopia’s commitment to implement its policies in line with development aspirations of neighboring countries.

He pointed out that the monumental agreement signed with Somaliland has provided Ethiopia with access to sea that is vital to spur nation’s economic growth with respect to prospects of its neighbors.

Saying that countries in the region are interrelated with cultural, geographic and historical aspects, the Minister underscored that the sea access adds impetus to Ethiopia’s efforts to ensure regional economic integration.

The Water and Energy Minister, Habtamu Itefa (PhD), for his prat, said that Ethiopia has been forced to face various challenges due to lack of access to the sea, describing the deal as the pathway to combat economic and geopolitical problems that are affecting every citizen.

Saying Ethiopia has a rapidly growing population, Habtamu noted that the port deal reinforces Ethiopia’s negotiating capacity and bequeath  a pride to the next generation.

The dignitaries further on Ethiopians to stand in unison for the realization of Ethiopia’s access to the sea by recognizing the deal as a matter of sovereignty and existence.