Israel has appointed Michael Lotem as its envoy to Somaliland, marking a notable diplomatic move in the Horn of Africa. The development highlights Israel’s growing outreach in the region and could reshape geopolitical dynamics, given Somaliland’s strategic location.


Michael Lotem Appointed As Israel's Envoy in Somaliland

Israel has deepened its diplomatic footprint by appointing its first-ever ambassador to Somaliland after formally recognising it last year. The move gives Somaliland a boost in its long quest for international legitimacy while strengthening Israel’s strategic presence in the Horn of Africa. Analysts say the outreach also reflects efforts to counter regional influence from Iran-backed groups and secure key maritime routes in the Red Sea.


Israel Appoints Its 1st Ambassador to Somaliland After Formally Recognising the Country Last Year 

Israel has appointed its first non-resident ambassador to Somaliland, marking a notable step in expanding diplomatic engagement with the self-declared republic in the Horn of Africa. While Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991, it is not internationally recognised as a sovereign state. The move signals growing strategic outreach by Israel in the region and could influence evolving geopolitical dynamics across East Africa.


Israel Appointed First Non-Resident Ambassador of Somaliland

Somaliland is willing to offer its minerals and military bases to the United States. The breakaway region of Somalia has been seeing international recognition since declaring its autonomy from Somalia in 1991. Khadar Hussein Abdi, minister of the presidency, said that their government believes they will agree on something with the US President Donald Trump’s administration.“We are willing to give exclusive (access to our minerals) to the United States. Also, we are open to offer military bases to the United States,” Abdi told AFP. “We believe that we will agree on something with the United States.”The Somalian government still considers the territory an “integral part” of Somalia even though it has had its autonomous affairs since 1991, with its own currency, passport, army, and police force.Last year in December, Israel became the first nation in the world to recognise Somaliland’s independence, signing a joint declaration with Somaliland’s President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi to establish full diplomatic ties with the country “in the spirit of the Abrahamic Accords”.Somaliland officials have said that the territory, which lies across the Gulf of Aden from Yemen, has natural resources, including lithium, coltan and other sought-after materials.In recent weeks, Somaliland president has suggested granting Israel access to its minerals. Abdi also suggested the possibility of allowing Israel to set up military presence in the territory.Following Israel’s recognition of the territory, Trump had suggested that he was not aware of the existence of the territory.In an interview in December, Trump said, “Does anyone know what Somaliland is, really?”Meanwhile, South African nations and Somalia have denounced Israeli recognition of Somaliland. Rejecting the move, the African Union (AU) said the decision risks “setting a dangerous precedent with far-reaching implications for peace and stability across the continent.”

Somaliland offered the US exclusive mineral access and military bases, seeking recognition. Somalia and the African Union oppose its independence, while Israel recently recognised the breakaway region.

Somaliland is willing to offer its minerals and military bases to the United States. The breakaway region of Somalia has been seeing international recognition since declaring its autonomy from Somalia in 1991. Khadar Hussein Abdi, minister of the presidency, said that their government believes they will agree on something with the US President Donald Trump’s administration. “We are willing to give exclusive (access to our minerals) to the United States. Also, we are open to offer military bases to the United States,” Abdi told AFP. “We believe that we will agree on something with the United States.” The Somalian government still considers the territory an “integral part” of Somalia even though it has had its autonomous affairs since 1991, with its own currency, passport, army, and police force. Last year in December, Israel became the first nation in the world to recognise Somaliland’s independence, signing a joint declaration with Somaliland’s President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi to establish full diplomatic ties with the country “in the spirit of the Abrahamic Accords”. Somaliland officials have said that the territory, which lies across the Gulf of Aden from Yemen, has natural resources, including lithium, coltan and other sought-after materials. In recent weeks, Somaliland president has suggested granting Israel access to its minerals. Abdi also suggested the possibility of allowing Israel to set up military presence in the territory. Following Israel’s recognition of the territory, Trump had suggested that he was not aware of the existence of the territory. In an interview in December, Trump said, “Does anyone know what Somaliland is, really?” Meanwhile, South African nations and Somalia have denounced Israeli recognition of Somaliland. Rejecting the move, the African Union (AU) said the decision risks “setting a dangerous precedent with far-reaching implications for peace and stability across the continent.”

Somaliland offered the US exclusive mineral access and military bases, seeking recognition. Somalia and the African Union oppose its independence, while Israel recently recognised the breakaway region.

‘We are open to offer’: Somaliland willing to give minerals, military bases to US

Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi says no bilateral economic deal with Israel had yet been reached, but Somaliland expected to sign "a partnership agreement".


Somaliland Expects Israel Trade Deal, Has Minerals To Offer

Somalia has severed all agreements with the United Arab Emirates, annulling deals spanning key port operations, security cooperation and defence, citing “harmful actions” that undermine the country’s unity and sovereignty.


Somaliland row: Somalia cites UAE actions 'undermining its territorial integrity'

Israel's decision to recognize Somaliland is illegitimate and unacceptable, the Turkish president said on Tuesday.

"The preservation of Somalia's unity and integrity under all circumstances is a priority for us," Recep Tayyip Erdogan said at a news conference with his Somali counterpart Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in Istanbul.

"We will continue to resolutely support Somalia's territorial integrity and political unity, and stand by the Somali people," the Turkish president stressed.


Trump-Netanyahu Discuss Gaza Peace Board: Turkey Criticises Israel's Somaliland Recognition

Israel's decision to recognize Somaliland is illegitimate and unacceptable, the Turkish president said on Tuesday.

"The preservation of Somalia's unity and integrity under all circumstances is a priority for us," Recep Tayyip Erdogan said at a news conference with his Somali counterpart Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in Istanbul.

"We will continue to resolutely support Somalia's territorial integrity and political unity, and stand by the Somali people," the Turkish president stressed.

Israel's Decision to Recognize Somaliland Illegitimate, Unacceptable: Turkish Prez Erdogan

Israel’s move to recognise Somaliland has sparked strong international reactions and heightened tensions in the region. Watch this story to find out more.

Israel's recognition of Somaliland sparks global condemnation 

The Houthis have warned Israel over its alleged presence in Somaliland, saying any Israeli footprint in the region would be considered a target. The statement comes amid rising regional tensions and diplomatic concerns surrounding Somaliland’s strategic location.


Somaliland row: Houthis warn against Israeli presence in Somaliland 

Israel became the first country to formally recognise the self-declared Republic of Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state on Friday -- a decision that could reshape regional dynamics and test Somalia's longstanding opposition to secession.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel would seek immediate cooperation with Somaliland in agriculture, health, technology and the economy. In a statement, he congratulated Somaliland's president, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, praised his leadership and invited him to visit Israel.

Somalian Govt Hits Out at Netanyahu; Arab League Meet to Reject Israel's Recognition of Somaliland

Somaliland Row: Muslim Nations Condemn Israel

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud said Israel’s move is "against international law" and constitutes unacceptable interference in Somalia’s internal affairs, stressing that "Somalia & its people are one: inseparable by division from a far."


Somaliland Row: Prez Hassan Sheikh Mohamud Says Somalia Inseparable by Division

Israel Ignites Storm With Somaliland Recognition 

Israel became the first country to formally recognise the self-declared Republic of Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state on Friday -- a decision that could reshape regional dynamics and test Somalia's longstanding opposition to secession.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel would seek immediate cooperation with Somaliland in agriculture, health, technology and the economy. In a statement, he congratulated Somaliland's president, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, praised his leadership and invited him to visit Israel.


Israel Ignites Storm With Somaliland Recognition

After Israel became the first United Nations member country to officially recognise the Republic of Somaliland as an Independent and sovereign state, US president Donald Trump in an interview to New York Post said he opposed US recognition of Somaliland. On being asked US's stand on the issue Trump said, "No," and added "Does anyone know what Somaliland is, really?"&nbsp;It is not only the US but South African nations and Somalia have also denounce Israeli recognition of Somaliland. Rejecting the move, the &nbsp;African Union (AU) said the decision risks "setting a dangerous precedent with far-reaching implications for peace and stability across the continent".&nbsp;The pan-African body's head Mahamoud Ali Youssouf said Somaliland "remains an integral part" of Somalia.<h2>Israeli recognises Somaliland</h2>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday (Dec 26) signed a joint declaration with Somaliland’s President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi to establish full diplomatic ties with the country "in the spirit of the Abrahmic Accords" championed by US President Donald Trump.Netanyahu said Israel would seek immediate cooperation with Somaliland in areas of agriculture, health, technology, and the economy. He congratulated President Abdullahi and extended an invitation to visit Israel.&nbsp;“I congratulated the President of Somaliland, Dr Abdirahman Mohamed Abdallah, and praised his leadership and commitment to promoting stability and peace. I invited the President to pay an official visit to Israel,” Netaynayahu posted on X.&nbsp;Somaliland, formally known as the Republic of Somaliland, is a self-declared republic located in the Horn of Africa and inhabited by a Majority Sunni Muslim population.&nbsp;Somaliland broke away from Somalia in 1991 following a brutal civil war and declared itself as an independent nation without international recognition.&nbsp;

It is not only the US but South African nations and Somalia have also denounce Israeli recognition of Somaliland and say it will hamper peace and stability.

After Israel became the first United Nations member country to officially recognise the Republic of Somaliland as an Independent and sovereign state, US president Donald Trump in an interview to New York Post said he opposed US recognition of Somaliland. On being asked US's stand on the issue Trump said, "No," and added "Does anyone know what Somaliland is, really?" It is not only the US but South African nations and Somalia have also denounce Israeli recognition of Somaliland. Rejecting the move, the African Union (AU) said the decision risks "setting a dangerous precedent with far-reaching implications for peace and stability across the continent". The pan-African body's head Mahamoud Ali Youssouf said Somaliland "remains an integral part" of Somalia. Israeli recognises Somaliland Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday (Dec 26) signed a joint declaration with Somaliland’s President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi to establish full diplomatic ties with the country "in the spirit of the Abrahmic Accords" championed by US President Donald Trump. Netanyahu said Israel would seek immediate cooperation with Somaliland in areas of agriculture, health, technology, and the economy. He congratulated President Abdullahi and extended an invitation to visit Israel. “I congratulated the President of Somaliland, Dr Abdirahman Mohamed Abdallah, and praised his leadership and commitment to promoting stability and peace. I invited the President to pay an official visit to Israel,” Netaynayahu posted on X. Somaliland, formally known as the Republic of Somaliland, is a self-declared republic located in the Horn of Africa and inhabited by a Majority Sunni Muslim population. Somaliland broke away from Somalia in 1991 following a brutal civil war and declared itself as an independent nation without international recognition.

It is not only the US but South African nations and Somalia have also denounce Israeli recognition of Somaliland and say “it will hamper peace and stability".

'Does anyone know Somaliland'?: Trump reacts on Israel recognising Somaliland as sovereign state

Israel has become the first country to recognise Somaliland as a sovereign state, a breakthrough in its quest for international recognition since it declared independence from Somalia 34 years ago.

Israel Becomes First Country to Recognise Somaliland as Sovereign State

Israel becomes the first United Nations member country to officially recognise the Republic of Somaliland as an Independent and sovereign state, ending a three-decade-long struggle of the region, which broke away from Somalia. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday (Dec 26) signed a joint declaration with Somaliland’s President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi to establish full diplomatic ties with the country "in the spirit of the Abrahmic Accords" championed by US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;Netanyahu said Israel would seek immediate cooperation with Somaliland in areas of agriculture, health, technology, and the economy. He congratulated President Abdullahi and extended an invitation to visit Israel.&nbsp;“I congratulated the President of Somaliland, Dr Abdirahman Mohamed Abdallah, and praised his leadership and commitment to promoting stability and peace. I invited the President to pay an official visit to Israel,” Netaynayahu posted on X.<h2>Somliland's quest for legitimacy</h2>Somaliland, formally known as the Republic of Somaliland, is a self-declared republic located in the Horn of Africa and inhabited by a Majority Sunni Muslim population.&nbsp;It enjoyed a brief recognition as an independent country for five days in 1960, when Somaliland was recognised by 35 countries, including Israel, before it was united with Somalia. It finally broke away from Somalia in 1991 following a brutal civil war and declared itself as an independent nation without international recognition. However, several countries, including the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Turkey, Denmark, and Kenya, maintained informal diplomatic ties with Somaliland.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/india-s-youngest-civilian-warrior-sharvan-singh-awarded-rashtriya-bal-puraskar-for-helping-soldiers-during-operation-sindoor-indian-armed-forces-1766763659962">India’s Youngest Civil Warrior, Sharvan Singh awarded Rashtriya Bal Puraskar for helping soldiers during Operation Sindoor</a>&nbsp;Somalia, which considers Somaliland as a breakaway province, has long rejected and rallied against efforts to gain international recognition.<h2>Somaliland's reaction to Israeli recognition</h2>Somaliland’s president welcomed Israel’s announcement recognising its statehood, calling the move the start of a “strategic partnership”.In a post on X, President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi described the recognition as a “historic moment” and said Somaliland was ready to join the Abraham Accords, which normalise relations with Israel. "This is a historic moment as we warmly welcome the Prime Minister of the State of Israel's recognition of the Republic of Somaliland and affirm Somaliland's readiness to join the Abraham Accords," normalising relations with Israel, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi posted on X. &nbsp;

Somaliland, a breakaway region of Somalia, is a self-declared state in the Horn of Africa that lacks international recognition as a separate country.

Israel becomes the first United Nations member country to officially recognise the Republic of Somaliland as an Independent and sovereign state, ending a three-decade-long struggle of the region, which broke away from Somalia. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday (Dec 26) signed a joint declaration with Somaliland’s President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi to establish full diplomatic ties with the country "in the spirit of the Abrahmic Accords" championed by US President Donald Trump. Netanyahu said Israel would seek immediate cooperation with Somaliland in areas of agriculture, health, technology, and the economy. He congratulated President Abdullahi and extended an invitation to visit Israel. “I congratulated the President of Somaliland, Dr Abdirahman Mohamed Abdallah, and praised his leadership and commitment to promoting stability and peace. I invited the President to pay an official visit to Israel,” Netaynayahu posted on X. Somliland's quest for legitimacy Somaliland, formally known as the Republic of Somaliland, is a self-declared republic located in the Horn of Africa and inhabited by a Majority Sunni Muslim population. It enjoyed a brief recognition as an independent country for five days in 1960, when Somaliland was recognised by 35 countries, including Israel, before it was united with Somalia. It finally broke away from Somalia in 1991 following a brutal civil war and declared itself as an independent nation without international recognition. However, several countries, including the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Turkey, Denmark, and Kenya, maintained informal diplomatic ties with Somaliland. Also Read: India’s Youngest Civil Warrior, Sharvan Singh awarded Rashtriya Bal Puraskar for helping soldiers during Operation Sindoor Somalia, which considers Somaliland as a breakaway province, has long rejected and rallied against efforts to gain international recognition. Somaliland's reaction to Israeli recognition Somaliland’s president welcomed Israel’s announcement recognising its statehood, calling the move the start of a “strategic partnership”. In a post on X, President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi described the recognition as a “historic moment” and said Somaliland was ready to join the Abraham Accords, which normalise relations with Israel. "This is a historic moment as we warmly welcome the Prime Minister of the State of Israel's recognition of the Republic of Somaliland and affirm Somaliland's readiness to join the Abraham Accords," normalising relations with Israel, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi posted on X.

Somaliland, a breakaway region of Somalia, is a self-declared state in the Horn of Africa that lacks international recognition as a separate country.

Israel becomes first nation to recognise Somaliland as independent state

Somaliland, an unrecognised nation in the Horn of Africa, controls a vital stretch of the Gulf of Aden—one of the world’s busiest trade routes. Yet it doesn’t officially exist on world maps. Here’s how a ghost nation rules an ocean.

Somaliland, an unrecognised nation in the Horn of Africa, controls a vital stretch of the Gulf of Aden—one of the world’s busiest trade routes. Yet it doesn’t officially exist on world maps. Here’s how a ghost nation rules an ocean.

This country controls an ocean but doesn’t officially exist on world maps

Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, leader of Somaliland’s opposition, has been elected president of the breakaway region of Somalia. 'Irro’ took over 60 percent of the vote having pledged to push efforts to gain international recognition for the region.

Somaliland: Opposition 'Irro' Trumps Bihi, Becomes New President

Somaliland's Presidential election this year is critical and important for the breakaway region in their quest for independence. A peaceful election would reinforce Somaliland’s claim as a stable, democratic entity.

Somaliland Votes, Continues Its Long Quest for Recognition

Somaliland's first all-women basketball team hopes to put their country on the map with their skills on the court. Hargeisa girls was founded in 2018 but already has a significant online following and their success has led to enough other female teams being created since to form a women’s league in the socially conservative country, where female participation in sport remains taboo for many.

Somaliland's first all-girls basketball team shoot for recognition

Somalia said on Tuesday that the pact its breakaway region of Somaliland has signed with Ethiopia allowing it to use the Red Sea port of Berbera had no legal force and threatened regional stability.

Somalia also summoned its ambassador to Ethiopia for deliberations over the port agreement signed by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi on Monday.

The agreement would allow landlocked Ethiopia, which relies on neighbouring Djibouti for most of its maritime trade, to set up commercial operations at a leased military base in Berbera.

It also included recognising Somaliland as an independent nation in due course.

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Abiy's stated ambition to secure access to the Red Sea is a source of tension between Ethiopia and its neighbours and has raised concerns of a fresh conflict in the Horn of Africa.

In October, Abiy said Ethiopia's existence was "tied to the Red Sea," adding that "if we (countries in the Horn of Africa) plan to live together in peace, we have to find a way to mutually share with each other in a balanced manner".

Somalia's cabinet said in a statement after an emergency meeting on Tuesday that the deal between Ethiopia and Somaliland "endangered stability and peace in the region".

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"It is a violation and an open interference with Somalia's sovereignty, freedom and unity. ... The so-called a memorandum of understanding and agreement of cooperation is null and void," the statement said.

Ethiopia would offer Somaliland a stake in state-owned Ethiopian Airlines in return for giving it access to the Red Sea, Abiy's national security adviser said on Monday, without giving more details.

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Billene Seyoum, spokesperson at Abiy's office, Meles Alem, spokesperson at Ethiopia's foreign affairs ministry, and Legesse Tulu, the Ethiopian government spokesperson, did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Somaliland has not gained widespread international recognition, despite declaring autonomy from Somalia in 1991. Somalia says Somaliland is part of its territory.

Last week the Somali National News Agency said Somalia and Somaliland had agreed to restart talks to resolve their disputes, following mediation efforts led by Djibouti.

Somalia said on Tuesday that the pact its breakaway region of Somaliland has signed with Ethiopia allowing it to use the Red Sea port of Berbera had no legal force and threatened regional stability.

Somalia said on Tuesday that the pact its breakaway region of Somaliland has signed with Ethiopia allowing it to use the Red Sea port of Berbera had no legal force and threatened regional stability. Somalia also summoned its ambassador to Ethiopia for deliberations over the port agreement signed by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi on Monday. The agreement would allow landlocked Ethiopia, which relies on neighbouring Djibouti for most of its maritime trade, to set up commercial operations at a leased military base in Berbera. It also included recognising Somaliland as an independent nation in due course. Also Read | Chinese exchange student falls victim to ‘cyber kidnapping’ scam, found in Utah wilderness Abiy's stated ambition to secure access to the Red Sea is a source of tension between Ethiopia and its neighbours and has raised concerns of a fresh conflict in the Horn of Africa. In October, Abiy said Ethiopia's existence was "tied to the Red Sea," adding that "if we (countries in the Horn of Africa) plan to live together in peace, we have to find a way to mutually share with each other in a balanced manner". Somalia's cabinet said in a statement after an emergency meeting on Tuesday that the deal between Ethiopia and Somaliland "endangered stability and peace in the region". Also Read | Primrose Hill stabbing case: Police names 16-year-old Harry Pitman as victim "It is a violation and an open interference with Somalia's sovereignty, freedom and unity. ... The so-called a memorandum of understanding and agreement of cooperation is null and void," the statement said. Ethiopia would offer Somaliland a stake in state-owned Ethiopian Airlines in return for giving it access to the Red Sea, Abiy's national security adviser said on Monday, without giving more details. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Israel signals changes in Gaza war tactics × Billene Seyoum, spokesperson at Abiy's office, Meles Alem, spokesperson at Ethiopia's foreign affairs ministry, and Legesse Tulu, the Ethiopian government spokesperson, did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Somaliland has not gained widespread international recognition, despite declaring autonomy from Somalia in 1991. Somalia says Somaliland is part of its territory. Last week the Somali National News Agency said Somalia and Somaliland had agreed to restart talks to resolve their disputes, following mediation efforts led by Djibouti.

Somalia rejects Ethiopia-Somaliland port deal, summons ambassador

Somalia authorities have over the past week been dealing with yet another mass displacement of people as conflict raged in las-anod following intensified confrontation between Somaliland forces and s-s-c militias. The problem in las anod is that the clans have disagreed on which side to pay allegiance to. Security experts fear that the problem may distract authorities from fighting Al-Shabaab, allowing the terrorists to infiltrate the area. Here's a report about what's happening in Somaliland.

World of Africa: Fighting rages in Somaliland's las anod

Loss of habitat and poaching is taking a toll on Cheetah cubs. Somaliland sets up a rescue center to keep rescued cubs from poachers.

Global Warming & Pet trade left Cheetah cubs vulnerable

The breakaway territory of Somaliland opened a representative office in Taipei on Wednesday in a move that has already drawn Beijing's ire.

The strategically located, self-declared African nation of&nbsp;Somaliland&nbsp;touted potential oil, gas and tourism resources for the investment.

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Somaliland’s chief representative in Taiwan Mohamed Omar Hagi Mohamoud and Taiwan's foreign minister Joseph Wu at the opening of the de facto embassy in Taipei. Photo: AFP

Taiwan signed the agreement on establishing representative offices with&nbsp;Somaliland&nbsp;in February, but did not make it public until July. Situated on the Horn of Africa,&nbsp;Somaliland&nbsp;borders Djibouti, where China maintains its first ever overseas military base.

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Both China, which claims Taiwan as its own, and Somalia have expressed their opposition to Taiwan and&nbsp;Somaliland's forging of ties.&nbsp;Somaliland&nbsp;declared independence in 1991 but is recognised internationally only as an autonomous region of Somalia.

Somaliland's chief representative in Taiwan Mohamed Omar Hagi Mohamoud said at the opening of the office in Taipei that they were an independent state establishing ties with Taiwan based on the common values of freedom and democracy.

Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu said they look forward to "exploring common interests and mutual benefits in areas such as fishery, energy, agriculture and others."

"We both face external pressures. But both are proud of our sovereignty and ready to defend it," Wu added.

Taiwan has just 15 formal diplomatic allies and is considered by China a part of its territory, while Somaliland is recognized internationally as part of Somalia, from which it broke away in 1991 as the country broke apart and descended into clan-based civil war. Somaliland has seen little of the violence and extremist attacks that plague the rest of Somalia.

While neither Taiwan or Somaliland are recognized by the United Nations, they both maintain their own independent governments, currencies and security systems.

The breakaway territory of Somaliland opened a representative office in Taipei on Wednesday in a move that has already drawn Beijing's ire. The strategically located, self-declared African nation of Somaliland touted potential oil, gas and tourism resources for the investment.

The breakaway territory of Somaliland opened a representative office in Taipei on Wednesday in a move that has already drawn Beijing's ire. The strategically located, self-declared African nation of Somaliland touted potential oil, gas and tourism resources for the investment. Somaliland’s chief representative in Taiwan Mohamed Omar Hagi Mohamoud and Taiwan's foreign minister Joseph Wu at the opening of the de facto embassy in Taipei. Photo: AFP Taiwan signed the agreement on establishing representative offices with Somaliland in February, but did not make it public until July. Situated on the Horn of Africa, Somaliland borders Djibouti, where China maintains its first ever overseas military base. Also read: Taiwan urges alliance against 'aggressive actions' to curb China's intrusion Both China, which claims Taiwan as its own, and Somalia have expressed their opposition to Taiwan and Somaliland's forging of ties. Somaliland declared independence in 1991 but is recognised internationally only as an autonomous region of Somalia. Somaliland's chief representative in Taiwan Mohamed Omar Hagi Mohamoud said at the opening of the office in Taipei that they were an independent state establishing ties with Taiwan based on the common values of freedom and democracy. Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu said they look forward to "exploring common interests and mutual benefits in areas such as fishery, energy, agriculture and others." "We both face external pressures. But both are proud of our sovereignty and ready to defend it," Wu added. Taiwan has just 15 formal diplomatic allies and is considered by China a part of its territory, while Somaliland is recognized internationally as part of Somalia, from which it broke away in 1991 as the country broke apart and descended into clan-based civil war. Somaliland has seen little of the violence and extremist attacks that plague the rest of Somalia. While neither Taiwan or Somaliland are recognized by the United Nations, they both maintain their own independent governments, currencies and security systems.

In major strategic move, Somaliland opens its embassy in Taiwan

Somaliland, a full fledged functioning defacto independent country in the horn of Africa, has established ties with Taiwan. What is significant is that Somaliland borders Djibouti that host many foriegn bases including the only base foriegn base of China.&nbsp;

Chinese People's Liberation Army Support Base in Djibouti was established in 2017 and gives the Chinese navy an oversight from Suez canal to western Indian ocean.

The Taiwanese foreign ministry said, "We've signed an agreement with Somaliland to establish good relations."

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A Taiwan Representative Office will be set up in this "independent country on the Horn of Africa" and "We're thousands of miles apart, but share a deep-seated love of freedom and democracy" the statement from Taipei.

The Somaliland FM Yasin Hagi Mohamoud was himself in the Taiwan to sign the agreement and establishment of diplomatic ties, welcomed by both Tsai Ing-wen President of Taiwan and Muse Bihi Abdi President of Somaliland.

Remember Somaliland in north western Somalia, while is a fully functioning country, but is not recognised globally. Few engagements with foriegn govts have happened including with South Africa, UK, Djibouti, Sweden.

Eswatini is the only country to have diplomatic ties with Taiwan so far in Africa. Burkina Faso in 2018 broke official ties with Taiwan. Taiwan has formal ties with 15 countries, and substantial relationship with most countries in the world.&nbsp;

Its passport is officially accepted by more than 150 countries and enjoys a high-level of visa exemption or facilitation treatment due to its people's 20 million outbound visits every year.

Somaliland, a full fledged functioning defacto independent country in the horn of Africa, has established ties with Taiwan. What is significant is that Somaliland borders Djibouti that host many foriegn bases including the only base foriegn base of China.

Somaliland, a full fledged functioning defacto independent country in the horn of Africa, has established ties with Taiwan. What is significant is that Somaliland borders Djibouti that host many foriegn bases including the only base foriegn base of China. Chinese People's Liberation Army Support Base in Djibouti was established in 2017 and gives the Chinese navy an oversight from Suez canal to western Indian ocean. The Taiwanese foreign ministry said, "We've signed an agreement with Somaliland to establish good relations." Also read| China's hunger for others' land knows no limits. It's latest target is Russia A Taiwan Representative Office will be set up in this "independent country on the Horn of Africa" and "We're thousands of miles apart, but share a deep-seated love of freedom and democracy" the statement from Taipei. The Somaliland FM Yasin Hagi Mohamoud was himself in the Taiwan to sign the agreement and establishment of diplomatic ties, welcomed by both Tsai Ing-wen President of Taiwan and Muse Bihi Abdi President of Somaliland. Remember Somaliland in north western Somalia, while is a fully functioning country, but is not recognised globally. Few engagements with foriegn govts have happened including with South Africa, UK, Djibouti, Sweden. Eswatini is the only country to have diplomatic ties with Taiwan so far in Africa. Burkina Faso in 2018 broke official ties with Taiwan. Taiwan has formal ties with 15 countries, and substantial relationship with most countries in the world. Its passport is officially accepted by more than 150 countries and enjoys a high-level of visa exemption or facilitation treatment due to its people's 20 million outbound visits every year.

Somaliland, next to China's only military base in Indian Ocean establishes ties with Taiwan

By&nbspBrendon J. Cannon and Dr. Ash Rossiter

When Eritrea gained its independence from Ethiopia in 1993, Ethiopia became landlocked and therefore dependent on its neighbours – especially Djibouti – for access to international markets. This dependency has hampered Ethiopia’s aspiration to emerge as the uncontested regional power in the Horn of Africa.

Recently, however, the ground has been shifting. As we point out in a recent article, Ethiopia has attempted to take advantage of the recent involvement of various Arab Gulf States in the Horn of Africa’s coastal zone to reduce its dependency on Djibouti’s port. The port currently accounts for 95% of Ethiopia’s imports and exports. It has done so by actively trying to interest partners in the refurbishment and development of other ports in the region: Port Sudan in Sudan, Berbera in the Somaliland region of Somalia, and Mombasa in Kenya.

But it is Berbera, in particular, that will prove the most radical in terms of challenging regional power dynamics as well as international law. This is because a port deal involving Somaliland will challenge Djibouti’s virtual monopoly over maritime trade. In addition, it may entrench the de-facto Balkanization of Somalia and increase the prospects of Ethiopia becoming the regional hegemon.

Ethiopia’s regional policy

Ethiopia’s interest in Berbera certainly makes sense from a strategic perspective. It is closest to Ethiopia and will connect the eastern, primarily Somali region of Ethiopia to Addis Ababa. It will also provide a much needed outlet for trade, particularly the export of livestock and agriculture.

The development and expansion of the port at Berbera supports two primary pillars of Ethiopia’s regional policy. The first is maintaining Eritrea’s isolation. The aim would be to weaken it to the point that it implodes and is formally reunited to Ethiopia. Or it becomes a pliant, client state.

The second pillar rests on maintaining the status quo in post-civil war Somalia. Simply put, a weak and fractured Somalia enables Ethiopia to focus on quelling persistent internal security difficulties. It also keeps up pressure on Eritrea.&nbsp

Ethiopia’s ambitions for Berbera have been hampered by two problems. Firstly the Republic of Somaliland – a de-facto independent state since 1991 – still isn’t recognised internationally. This makes engagement a political and legal headache. Secondly, Ethiopia, doesn’t have the critical resources needed to invest and build a port.

Ethiopia had been trying to get Abu Dhabi and Dubai interested in the Berbera Port for years. It’s latest push was assisted by a number of factors. These included a shift in the UAE’s military focus in Yemen and Ethiopian assurances of more trade and some financing to upgrade the port.

Ethiopia’s diplomatic push – which coincided with developments across the Gulf of Aden – finally got it the result it craved. In May 2016, DP World, a global mega-ports operator, signed an agreement to develop and manage Berbera Port for 30 years.

The Berbera Port deal

It is unlikely that DP World would have signed the deal if it didn’t see some long-term commercial benefit. The deal also includes economic, military and political dimensions.

Economically, for example, there will be investments in Somaliland’s fisheries, transportation and hospitality industry. The UAE will also establish a military installation in Berbera. The base is intended to help the UAE tighten its blockade against Yemen and stop weapons being smuggled from Iran.

Politically, the Berbera Port deal has provoked mixed reactions in Somaliland. There has been some popular anger aimed at Somaliland’s former president, Ahmed Mohamed Mohamoud aka “Silanyo”, and his family who reportedly benefited personally from it. Anger also stems from inter-clan and sub-clan rivalry over land, particularly in the Berbera area.

But the anger in Somaliland pales in comparison to the reaction in Mogadishu. This is because the Somaliland government has remained largely isolated internationally – until the port deal.

Somalia Federal Government ministers have publicly challenged the right of Somaliland to enter into official agreements with any country. The Ethiopian-driven deal means that Mogadishu’s claims over the breakaway territory have weakened substantially. The deal means that Somaliland has partially broken the glass ceiling of international recognition by entering into substantive deals with viable business partners and states operating on the global stage. Mogadishu can no longer pretend it controls the government in Somaliland’s capital Hargeisa.

Ethiopia’s wins

The bottom line is that Ethiopia has engineered access to another port and enhanced its security and strategic economic interests. With the growth in annual volumes of transit cargo, Ethiopia has, for a long time, needed alternative routes from Djibouti.

In addition, Ethiopia has ensured its presence in the running of the port by acquiring a 19% share in the deal.

And by wangling a legally binding agreement between Somaliland and another state, Ethiopia has potentially paved the way for eventual international recognition of Hargeisa.

Ethiopia has also further cemented its hold over Somaliland through a combination of pressure and material incentives. By bringing significant outside investment and recognition, Ethiopia can also increasingly meddle in its internal affairs. This is a conundrum for Hargeisa. It finds itself increasingly emboldened to act independently. Yet it remains constrained by the need to get Addis Ababa’s approval.

As Ethiopia begins to move increasing amounts of goods and services on Somaliland’s new highway to the refurbished port of Berbera, Hargeisa may begin to question key aspects of the port deal.

But one aspect will not be in question: Ethiopia’s rising power and influence over the entire region.&nbsp

&nbsp

*Brendon J. Cannon and Dr. Ash Rossiter are Assistant Professor in International Security, Department of Humanities & Social Science at Khalifa University of Science & Technology&nbsp

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Ethiopia has attempted to take advantage of the recent involvement of various Arab Gulf States in the Horn of Africa’s coastal zone to reduce its dependency on Djibouti’s port

By&nbspBrendon J. Cannon and Dr. Ash Rossiter When Eritrea gained its independence from Ethiopia in 1993, Ethiopia became landlocked and therefore dependent on its neighbours – especially Djibouti – for access to international markets. This dependency has hampered Ethiopia’s aspiration to emerge as the uncontested regional power in the Horn of Africa. Recently, however, the ground has been shifting. As we point out in a recent article, Ethiopia has attempted to take advantage of the recent involvement of various Arab Gulf States in the Horn of Africa’s coastal zone to reduce its dependency on Djibouti’s port. The port currently accounts for 95% of Ethiopia’s imports and exports. It has done so by actively trying to interest partners in the refurbishment and development of other ports in the region: Port Sudan in Sudan, Berbera in the Somaliland region of Somalia, and Mombasa in Kenya. But it is Berbera, in particular, that will prove the most radical in terms of challenging regional power dynamics as well as international law. This is because a port deal involving Somaliland will challenge Djibouti’s virtual monopoly over maritime trade. In addition, it may entrench the de-facto Balkanization of Somalia and increase the prospects of Ethiopia becoming the regional hegemon. Ethiopia’s regional policy Ethiopia’s interest in Berbera certainly makes sense from a strategic perspective. It is closest to Ethiopia and will connect the eastern, primarily Somali region of Ethiopia to Addis Ababa. It will also provide a much needed outlet for trade, particularly the export of livestock and agriculture. The development and expansion of the port at Berbera supports two primary pillars of Ethiopia’s regional policy. The first is maintaining Eritrea’s isolation. The aim would be to weaken it to the point that it implodes and is formally reunited to Ethiopia. Or it becomes a pliant, client state. The second pillar rests on maintaining the status quo in post-civil war Somalia. Simply put, a weak and fractured Somalia enables Ethiopia to focus on quelling persistent internal security difficulties. It also keeps up pressure on Eritrea. Ethiopia’s ambitions for Berbera have been hampered by two problems. Firstly the Republic of Somaliland – a de-facto independent state since 1991 – still isn’t recognised internationally. This makes engagement a political and legal headache. Secondly, Ethiopia, doesn’t have the critical resources needed to invest and build a port. Ethiopia had been trying to get Abu Dhabi and Dubai interested in the Berbera Port for years. It’s latest push was assisted by a number of factors. These included a shift in the UAE’s military focus in Yemen and Ethiopian assurances of more trade and some financing to upgrade the port. Ethiopia’s diplomatic push – which coincided with developments across the Gulf of Aden – finally got it the result it craved. In May 2016, DP World, a global mega-ports operator, signed an agreement to develop and manage Berbera Port for 30 years. The Berbera Port deal It is unlikely that DP World would have signed the deal if it didn’t see some long-term commercial benefit. The deal also includes economic, military and political dimensions. Economically, for example, there will be investments in Somaliland’s fisheries, transportation and hospitality industry. The UAE will also establish a military installation in Berbera. The base is intended to help the UAE tighten its blockade against Yemen and stop weapons being smuggled from Iran. Politically, the Berbera Port deal has provoked mixed reactions in Somaliland. There has been some popular anger aimed at Somaliland’s former president, Ahmed Mohamed Mohamoud aka “Silanyo”, and his family who reportedly benefited personally from it. Anger also stems from inter-clan and sub-clan rivalry over land, particularly in the Berbera area. But the anger in Somaliland pales in comparison to the reaction in Mogadishu. This is because the Somaliland government has remained largely isolated internationally – until the port deal. Somalia Federal Government ministers have publicly challenged the right of Somaliland to enter into official agreements with any country. The Ethiopian-driven deal means that Mogadishu’s claims over the breakaway territory have weakened substantially. The deal means that Somaliland has partially broken the glass ceiling of international recognition by entering into substantive deals with viable business partners and states operating on the global stage. Mogadishu can no longer pretend it controls the government in Somaliland’s capital Hargeisa. Ethiopia’s wins The bottom line is that Ethiopia has engineered access to another port and enhanced its security and strategic economic interests. With the growth in annual volumes of transit cargo, Ethiopia has, for a long time, needed alternative routes from Djibouti. In addition, Ethiopia has ensured its presence in the running of the port by acquiring a 19% share in the deal. And by wangling a legally binding agreement between Somaliland and another state, Ethiopia has potentially paved the way for eventual international recognition of Hargeisa. Ethiopia has also further cemented its hold over Somaliland through a combination of pressure and material incentives. By bringing significant outside investment and recognition, Ethiopia can also increasingly meddle in its internal affairs. This is a conundrum for Hargeisa. It finds itself increasingly emboldened to act independently. Yet it remains constrained by the need to get Addis Ababa’s approval. As Ethiopia begins to move increasing amounts of goods and services on Somaliland’s new highway to the refurbished port of Berbera, Hargeisa may begin to question key aspects of the port deal. But one aspect will not be in question: Ethiopia’s rising power and influence over the entire region. *Brendon J. Cannon and Dr. Ash Rossiter are Assistant Professor in International Security, Department of Humanities & Social Science at Khalifa University of Science & Technology (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: How an Ethiopia-backed port is changing power dynamics in the Horn of Africa

By&nbsp;Brendon J. Cannon and Dr. Ash Rossiter

When Eritrea gained its independence from Ethiopia in 1993, Ethiopia became landlocked and therefore dependent on its neighbours &ndash; especially Djibouti &ndash; for access to international markets. This dependency has hampered Ethiopia&rsquo;s aspiration to emerge as the uncontested regional power in the Horn of Africa.

Recently, however, the ground has been shifting. As we point out in a recent article, Ethiopia has attempted to take advantage of the recent involvement of various Arab Gulf States in the Horn of Africa&rsquo;s coastal zone to reduce its dependency on Djibouti&rsquo;s port. The port currently accounts for 95% of Ethiopia&rsquo;s imports and exports. It has done so by actively trying to interest partners in the refurbishment and development of other ports in the region: Port Sudan in Sudan, Berbera in the Somaliland region of Somalia, and Mombasa in Kenya.

But it is Berbera, in particular, that will prove the most radical in terms of challenging regional power dynamics as well as international law. This is because a port deal involving Somaliland will challenge Djibouti&rsquo;s virtual monopoly over maritime trade. In addition, it may entrench the de-facto Balkanization of Somalia and increase the prospects of Ethiopia becoming the regional hegemon.

Ethiopia&rsquo;s regional policy

Ethiopia&rsquo;s interest in Berbera certainly makes sense from a strategic perspective. It is closest to Ethiopia and will connect the eastern, primarily Somali region of Ethiopia to Addis Ababa. It will also provide a much needed outlet for trade, particularly the export of livestock and agriculture.

The development and expansion of the port at Berbera supports two primary pillars of Ethiopia&rsquo;s regional policy. The first is maintaining Eritrea&rsquo;s isolation. The aim would be to weaken it to the point that it implodes and is formally reunited to Ethiopia. Or it becomes a pliant, client state.

The second pillar rests on maintaining the status quo in post-civil war Somalia. Simply put, a weak and fractured Somalia enables Ethiopia to focus on quelling persistent internal security difficulties. It also keeps up pressure on Eritrea.&nbsp;

Ethiopia&rsquo;s ambitions for Berbera have been hampered by two problems. Firstly the Republic of Somaliland &ndash; a de-facto independent state since 1991 &ndash; still isn&rsquo;t recognised internationally. This makes engagement a political and legal headache. Secondly, Ethiopia, doesn&rsquo;t have the critical resources needed to invest and build a port.

Ethiopia had been trying to get Abu Dhabi and Dubai interested in the Berbera Port for years. It&rsquo;s latest push was assisted by a number of factors. These included a shift in the UAE&rsquo;s military focus in Yemen and Ethiopian assurances of more trade and some financing to upgrade the port.

Ethiopia&rsquo;s diplomatic push &ndash; which coincided with developments across the Gulf of Aden &ndash; finally got it the result it craved. In May 2016, DP World, a global mega-ports operator, signed an agreement to develop and manage Berbera Port for 30 years.

The Berbera Port deal

It is unlikely that DP World would have signed the deal if it didn&rsquo;t see some long-term commercial benefit. The deal also includes economic, military and political dimensions.

Economically, for example, there will be investments in Somaliland&rsquo;s fisheries, transportation and hospitality industry. The UAE will also establish a military installation in Berbera. The base is intended to help the UAE tighten its blockade against Yemen and stop weapons being smuggled from Iran.

Politically, the Berbera Port deal has provoked mixed reactions in Somaliland. There has been some popular anger aimed at Somaliland&rsquo;s former president, Ahmed Mohamed Mohamoud aka &ldquo;Silanyo&rdquo;, and his family who reportedly benefited personally from it. Anger also stems from inter-clan and sub-clan rivalry over land, particularly in the Berbera area.

But the anger in Somaliland pales in comparison to the reaction in Mogadishu. This is because the Somaliland government has remained largely isolated internationally &ndash; until the port deal.

Somalia Federal Government ministers have publicly challenged the right of Somaliland to enter into official agreements with any country. The Ethiopian-driven deal means that Mogadishu&rsquo;s claims over the breakaway territory have weakened substantially. The deal means that Somaliland has partially broken the glass ceiling of international recognition by entering into substantive deals with viable business partners and states operating on the global stage. Mogadishu can no longer pretend it controls the government in Somaliland&rsquo;s capital Hargeisa.

Ethiopia&rsquo;s wins

The bottom line is that Ethiopia has engineered access to another port and enhanced its security and strategic economic interests. With the growth in annual volumes of transit cargo, Ethiopia has, for a long time, needed alternative routes from Djibouti.

In addition, Ethiopia has ensured its presence in the running of the port by acquiring a 19% share in the deal.

And by wangling a legally binding agreement between Somaliland and another state, Ethiopia has potentially paved the way for eventual international recognition of Hargeisa.

Ethiopia has also further cemented its hold over Somaliland through a combination of pressure and material incentives. By bringing significant outside investment and recognition, Ethiopia can also increasingly meddle in its internal affairs. This is a conundrum for Hargeisa. It finds itself increasingly emboldened to act independently. Yet it remains constrained by the need to get Addis Ababa&rsquo;s approval.

As Ethiopia begins to move increasing amounts of goods and services on Somaliland&rsquo;s new highway to the refurbished port of Berbera, Hargeisa may begin to question key aspects of the port deal.

But one aspect will not be in question: Ethiopia&rsquo;s rising power and influence over the entire region.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

*Brendon J. Cannon and Dr. Ash Rossiter are Assistant Professor in International Security, Department of Humanities &amp; Social Science at Khalifa University of Science &amp; Technology&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Ethiopia has attempted to take advantage of the recent involvement of various Arab Gulf States in the Horn of Africa’s coastal zone to reduce its dependency on Djibouti’s port.

By Brendon J. Cannon and Dr. Ash Rossiter When Eritrea gained its independence from Ethiopia in 1993, Ethiopia became landlocked and therefore dependent on its neighbours – especially Djibouti – for access to international markets. This dependency has hampered Ethiopia’s aspiration to emerge as the uncontested regional power in the Horn of Africa. Recently, however, the ground has been shifting. As we point out in a recent article, Ethiopia has attempted to take advantage of the recent involvement of various Arab Gulf States in the Horn of Africa’s coastal zone to reduce its dependency on Djibouti’s port. The port currently accounts for 95% of Ethiopia’s imports and exports. It has done so by actively trying to interest partners in the refurbishment and development of other ports in the region: Port Sudan in Sudan, Berbera in the Somaliland region of Somalia, and Mombasa in Kenya. But it is Berbera, in particular, that will prove the most radical in terms of challenging regional power dynamics as well as international law. This is because a port deal involving Somaliland will challenge Djibouti’s virtual monopoly over maritime trade. In addition, it may entrench the de-facto Balkanization of Somalia and increase the prospects of Ethiopia becoming the regional hegemon. Ethiopia’s regional policy Ethiopia’s interest in Berbera certainly makes sense from a strategic perspective. It is closest to Ethiopia and will connect the eastern, primarily Somali region of Ethiopia to Addis Ababa. It will also provide a much needed outlet for trade, particularly the export of livestock and agriculture. The development and expansion of the port at Berbera supports two primary pillars of Ethiopia’s regional policy. The first is maintaining Eritrea’s isolation. The aim would be to weaken it to the point that it implodes and is formally reunited to Ethiopia. Or it becomes a pliant, client state. The second pillar rests on maintaining the status quo in post-civil war Somalia. Simply put, a weak and fractured Somalia enables Ethiopia to focus on quelling persistent internal security difficulties. It also keeps up pressure on Eritrea. Ethiopia’s ambitions for Berbera have been hampered by two problems. Firstly the Republic of Somaliland – a de-facto independent state since 1991 – still isn’t recognised internationally. This makes engagement a political and legal headache. Secondly, Ethiopia, doesn’t have the critical resources needed to invest and build a port. Ethiopia had been trying to get Abu Dhabi and Dubai interested in the Berbera Port for years. It’s latest push was assisted by a number of factors. These included a shift in the UAE’s military focus in Yemen and Ethiopian assurances of more trade and some financing to upgrade the port. Ethiopia’s diplomatic push – which coincided with developments across the Gulf of Aden – finally got it the result it craved. In May 2016, DP World, a global mega-ports operator, signed an agreement to develop and manage Berbera Port for 30 years. The Berbera Port deal It is unlikely that DP World would have signed the deal if it didn’t see some long-term commercial benefit. The deal also includes economic, military and political dimensions. Economically, for example, there will be investments in Somaliland’s fisheries, transportation and hospitality industry. The UAE will also establish a military installation in Berbera. The base is intended to help the UAE tighten its blockade against Yemen and stop weapons being smuggled from Iran. Politically, the Berbera Port deal has provoked mixed reactions in Somaliland. There has been some popular anger aimed at Somaliland’s former president, Ahmed Mohamed Mohamoud aka “Silanyo”, and his family who reportedly benefited personally from it. Anger also stems from inter-clan and sub-clan rivalry over land, particularly in the Berbera area. But the anger in Somaliland pales in comparison to the reaction in Mogadishu. This is because the Somaliland government has remained largely isolated internationally – until the port deal. Somalia Federal Government ministers have publicly challenged the right of Somaliland to enter into official agreements with any country. The Ethiopian-driven deal means that Mogadishu’s claims over the breakaway territory have weakened substantially. The deal means that Somaliland has partially broken the glass ceiling of international recognition by entering into substantive deals with viable business partners and states operating on the global stage. Mogadishu can no longer pretend it controls the government in Somaliland’s capital Hargeisa. Ethiopia’s wins The bottom line is that Ethiopia has engineered access to another port and enhanced its security and strategic economic interests. With the growth in annual volumes of transit cargo, Ethiopia has, for a long time, needed alternative routes from Djibouti. In addition, Ethiopia has ensured its presence in the running of the port by acquiring a 19% share in the deal. And by wangling a legally binding agreement between Somaliland and another state, Ethiopia has potentially paved the way for eventual international recognition of Hargeisa. Ethiopia has also further cemented its hold over Somaliland through a combination of pressure and material incentives. By bringing significant outside investment and recognition, Ethiopia can also increasingly meddle in its internal affairs. This is a conundrum for Hargeisa. It finds itself increasingly emboldened to act independently. Yet it remains constrained by the need to get Addis Ababa’s approval. As Ethiopia begins to move increasing amounts of goods and services on Somaliland’s new highway to the refurbished port of Berbera, Hargeisa may begin to question key aspects of the port deal. But one aspect will not be in question: Ethiopia’s rising power and influence over the entire region. *Brendon J. Cannon and Dr. Ash Rossiter are Assistant Professor in International Security, Department of Humanities & Social Science at Khalifa University of Science & Technology (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

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Michael Lotem Appointed As Israel's Envoy in Somaliland

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Somaliland Expects Israel Trade Deal, Has Minerals To Offer

Somaliland row: Somalia cites UAE actions 'undermining its territorial integrity'

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Israel's Decision to Recognize Somaliland Illegitimate, Unacceptable: Turkish Prez Erdogan

Israel's recognition of Somaliland sparks global condemnation

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Somalian Govt Hits Out at Netanyahu; Arab League Meet to Reject Israel's Recognition of Somaliland

Somaliland Row: Muslim Nations Condemn Israel

Somaliland Row: Prez Hassan Sheikh Mohamud Says Somalia Inseparable by Division

Israel Ignites Storm With Somaliland Recognition

Israel Ignites Storm With Somaliland Recognition

'Does anyone know Somaliland'?: Trump reacts on Israel's recognition

Israel Becomes First Country to Recognise Somaliland as Sovereign State

Israel becomes first nation to recognise Somaliland as independent state

This country controls an ocean but doesn’t officially exist on world maps

Somaliland: Opposition 'Irro' Trumps Bihi, Becomes New President

Somaliland Votes, Continues Its Long Quest for Recognition

Somaliland's first all-girls basketball team shoot for recognition

Somalia rejects Ethiopia-Somaliland port deal, summons ambassador

World of Africa: Fighting rages in Somaliland's las anod

Global Warming & Pet trade left Cheetah cubs vulnerable

In major strategic move, Somaliland opens its embassy in Taiwan