A Call for a Clear and Consistent Foreign Policy

Somaliland is a de facto independent and functioning democracy in the Horn of Africa. Like many African nations, it gained independence from British colonial rule in 1960. Although it voluntarily entered a union with Somalia, that union collapsed in 1991 following decades of marginalization, violence, and dictatorship. Since that time, Somaliland has successfully reasserted its statehood and built a relatively stable and democratic society.

Yet in the complex regional landscape of East Africa, not all neighbours have treated Somaliland with honesty, respect, or consistency. One exception has been the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.

Ethiopia: A Time-Tested Partner and Ally

Ethiopia has stood by Somaliland since the early days of its struggle. During the brutal conflict against the Siad Barre regime, it was Ethiopia that opened its borders, providing shelter to over 2 million Somali landers fleeing violence. In those years, the seeds of brotherhood were planted—not based on political convenience, but on human solidarity and mutual recognition of a shared destiny.

In the post-war reconstruction era, Ethiopia was the first country to treat Somaliland with the dignity of a state. Ethiopian military academies accepted our officers, and Ethiopian universities provided scholarships to our students. Diplomatic and security cooperation flourished despite Somaliland’s lack of international recognition.

These were not minor gestures; they were lifelines. Ethiopia has consistently respected Somaliland’s internal stability and sought a mutually beneficial relationship, particularly in areas such as security cooperation, trade, port access, and intelligence sharing.

Strategic Imperatives: Mutual Need, Mutual Gain

Today, both Ethiopia and Somaliland are at critical geopolitical crossroads.

  • Somaliland needs regional allies who respect its sovereignty, support its development, and understand its unique political trajectory. It cannot afford to place trust in actors who seek to undermine or absorb it under the guise of unity or temporary diplomacy.
  • Ethiopia, a landlocked nation with over 120 million people, desperately needs reliable access to the sea. Somaliland’s Berbera Port is not just a commercial gateway—it is a strategic artery for Ethiopia’s economy, security, and regional influence. No other Red Sea access point offers Ethiopia the political neutrality, safety, and logistical advantages that Somaliland does.

Any realistic regional policy must recognize that the Ethiopia-Somaliland partnership is not optional—it is inevitable.

Zigzag Diplomacy Is Dangerous

Unfortunately, recent signs from the new Somaliland administration suggest a lack of consistency in foreign policy. While some voices within the government hint at renewed ties with countries like  Djibouti and Turkey—nations that have directly or indirectly challenged Somaliland’s sovereignty—there appears to be a softening or delay in pursuing deeper relations with Ethiopia, especially in advancing the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed on 1 January 2024. We must ask the Ethiopian government about their seriousness regarding the MOU; if it is acceptable, we should revise the main points and reach a full agreement.

This “zigzag diplomacy” is not sustainable. It sends mixed signals to both our friends and adversaries. Somaliland cannot afford to alienate its closest historical ally while attempting to appease or negotiate with actors who deny its very existence. Such a policy lacks realism, principle, and strategic foresight.

A Clear Policy Path Forward

  1. The MOU with Ethiopia must be finalized and operationalized. Berbera Port should serve as a trade and logistics hub for Ethiopia, and both nations should pursue deeper security and intelligence collaboration. We must ask the Ethiopian government about their seriousness regarding the MOU; if it is acceptable, we should revise the main points and reach a full agreement.
  2. Foreign policy must prioritize Ethiopia as our number one ally. No regional country has invested more trust, resources, and time into building ties with Somaliland than Ethiopia.
  3. Diplomatic efforts must be disciplined and based on clear national interests. Engaging with countries like Somalia, Djibouti, or Turkey must not come at the expense of our core values and our most trusted relationships.

Conclusion: A Brotherly Bond That Must Not Be Broken

Our bond with Ethiopia was forged in fire—through war, displacement, and the painful rebirth of our nation. It is not a transactional relationship; it is a historical alliance that has deepened over time. Somaliland’s security, prosperity, and recognition efforts are best served by standing side by side with Ethiopia in regional diplomacy, economic planning, and mutual defence.

It is time for the current administration to set aside short-term political calculations and concentrate on a long-term strategic vision. Ethiopia has always stood with us, and now, we must stand firmly with Ethiopia.

Let Somaliland speak with one voice: our future is regional, strategic, and sovereign—and our closest ally in that vision is Ethiopia.

Eng. Abdi Ali Barkhad  

Independent Political Analyst: Engineer Barkhad is a Consultant Somali electrical engineer, political analyst, and writer known for his comprehensive commentary on the politics of the Horn of Africa and international relations. He has published numerous articles analysing current policies in the region and is a staunch advocate for the cause of the Republic of Somaliland. his insights have been featured on Araweelo News Network.

Engineer Abdi Ali Barkhad Hargeisa Somaliland Contact Email:  tra50526@gmail.com 30/5/2025.       

The information contained in the article posted represents the views and opinions of the author and does not necessarily represent the views or opinions commentators. the article a opininian of the author don’t necessarily reflect the Editorial policy of Araweelo News Network.

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