By some accounts, the deal provides for Hargeisa to obtain shares in Ethiopian state-owned enterprises such as Ethiopian Airlines. Additionally, the deal with Ethiopia is likely driven by Bihi’s desire to bolster his political standing at home. On 6 January, President Mohamud signed a parliamentary bill declaring the deal “null and void”, though this step was mostly rhetorical. Although Eritrea’s government has been quiet about the deal, President Isaias Afwerki invited Somalia’s President Mohamud to Asmara. Ethiopia, Somaliland and Somalia should strive to de-escalate tensions.

Source: Ethiopian News March 06, 2024 11:17 UTC