Wednesday December 4, 2024
The Somaliland delegation, led by Second Deputy Speaker Ali Hamud Jibril, poses for a photo with Djibouti officials following a meeting aimed at strengthening diplomatic ties. The visit marks a step toward reconciliation amid recent tensions over regional trade and economic competition. CREDIT / Somaliland TV
Mogadishu (HOL) — Relations between Djibouti and Somaliland appear to be thawing as a senior delegation from Somaliland visited Djibouti this week to ease years of diplomatic strain.
Led by Ali Hamud Jibril, the Second Deputy Speaker of Somaliland’s House of Representatives, the delegation’s visit comes at a critical juncture, with tensions lingering over Somaliland’s maritime agreement with Ethiopia. Djibouti views the deal as a threat to its economic lifeline—its port, which Ethiopia relies on for much of its trade. This unease has cast a shadow over a relationship historically rooted in shared culture and familial ties.
Speaking to the BBC, Jibril emphasized the visit’s purpose as a step toward reconciliation. “Our trip is about strengthening the brotherly relationship between two nations with a shared history. We aim to foster cooperation and build on our historical bond,” he said.
The discussions focused on parliamentary collaboration and fostering cooperation. Jibril avoided commenting on the maritime deal’s impact, deferring to Somaliland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and its new leadership under the Wadani party.
Experts highlight that the Ethiopia-Somaliland maritime agreement is central to the strain. Djibouti has long been Ethiopia’s gateway to the sea, and the new deal threatens to redirect trade routes, undermining Djibouti’s economic dominance.
“Djibouti sees the Ethiopia-Somaliland agreement as a challenge to its economic interests,” said Dr. Ahmed-Saki Farah Idle, a regional security analyst. “This has introduced a level of competition Djibouti is uncomfortable with.”
Idle believes the visit signals a shift in Somaliland’s diplomatic approach. The Wadani party, which recently came to power, appears to be carving out a path distinct from its predecessor, Muse Bihi.
“The unannounced visit marks a diplomatic reset. “It reflects a pragmatic willingness to rebuild regional relationships and address shared challenges.”
However, Wadani’s foreign policy remains largely undefined, leaving questions about how it will navigate complex regional dynamics.
“Djibouti views this as a chance to restore dialogue and protect its strategic interests,” Dr. Idle explained.
He added that renewed dialogue could revitalize Djibouti’s role in Somalia-Somaliland negotiations, which it has facilitated for years without tangible progress.
He added that renewed dialogue could revitalize Djibouti’s role in Somalia-Somaliland negotiations, which it has facilitated for years without tangible progress.
- With files from the BBC Somali Service
The President of Djibouti, Ismaïl Omar Guelleh (center), meets with members of the Somaliland delegation, including Second Deputy Speaker Ali Hamud Jibril (second from left), during a visit aimed at fostering stronger diplomatic and economic ties between the two neighbors. CREDIT / Ali Hamud