"Ethiopia's PM Abiy Ahmed Eases Tensions with Somalia and Djibouti"
Ethiopia's Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed reassured parliament that his country does not intend harm towards Somalia, following accusations of attempting to annex Somali territory through a controversial deal with breakaway republic Somaliland. Somalia condemned the agreement as an act of aggression, sparking protests in Mogadishu, while diplomats emphasized the need to recognize Somalia's sovereignty. Abiy emphasized the historical ties and brotherhood between the two nations, but also stressed the importance of sea access for Ethiopia. The deal with Somaliland involves granting Ethiopia access to the sea and potential lease of a coastline section, in exchange for potential recognition of Somaliland's independence, although this has not been confirmed by Ethiopia.
