In brief
- Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn said his government will work with Somaliland on infrastructure development for mutual benefit, as reported by Horn Diplomat on February 12, 2017.
- The discussion in Addis Ababa on February 10, 2017, focused on roads, energy cooperation and developing the Port of Berbera, according to Ethiopian and Somaliland officials.
- Horn Diplomat's report does not establish that any formal agreement was signed or that any project has started, been funded or completed since the meeting.
On February 12, 2017, Horn Diplomat reported that Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn said his government will work with the Somaliland administration on infrastructure development for mutual benefit. The remark came during a discussion in Addis Ababa on February 10, 2017, with a Somaliland delegation led by Muse Behi Abdi, Kulmiye Party Presidential Nominee, according to Horn Diplomat.
The discussion focused on enhancing infrastructure development, particularly roads, to connect the two sides and enable Ethiopia to use the Port of Berbera, Horn Diplomat reported. Ethiopian Minister of Transport Ahmed Shide told ENA that the two sides agreed to work together on peace, security and reducing drought vulnerability, and that they agreed to cooperate in the energy sector. Shide also said the two sides exchanged views on boosting trade ties and agreed to continue scholarships for Somaliland students.
Somaliland Foreign Minister Dr. Saad Ali Shire told ENA that Ethiopia and Somaliland will continue to work together for mutual benefit and regional stability, and that they agreed to develop the Port of Berbera to enhance ties.
Horn Diplomat's report does not cite a formal agreement document or memorandum of understanding. It does not name specific road projects, costs, funders or contractors. It gives no timeline, scope or value for energy cooperation. It does not state the number of scholarships or their funding. It also provides no information on the status of the Port of Berbera development, including feasibility, funding or concession details. The report does not establish that any road construction has started or been completed, that the port development has begun or received funding, or that any specific energy projects are underway. It also does not cover any developments after the 2017 meeting.
Frequently asked questions
What infrastructure projects were discussed by Ethiopia and Somaliland?
The discussion focused on roads to connect the two sides and enable Ethiopia to use the Port of Berbera, as reported by Horn Diplomat. No specific road names, lengths or budgets were given.
Did Ethiopia and Somaliland sign a formal agreement on infrastructure?
Horn Diplomat's report does not cite a formal agreement document or memorandum of understanding. It reports statements by officials about working together.
Has work started on the Port of Berbera development?
The Horn Diplomat report provides no information on the status of port development, funding, feasibility or construction.