https://arab.news/zsmeu
- A resolution issued by the Arab League鈥檚 ministerial council on Jan. 17 declared backing for Somalia鈥檚 diplomatic efforts to tackle 鈥渢his perilous situation鈥�
CAIRO: Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit has pledged the organization鈥檚 support for Somalia against Ethiopia鈥檚 controversial recognition of Somaliland as an independent state.
During a meeting in Egypt with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, Aboul Gheit described a memorandum of understanding signed between Ethiopia and the Somaliland region as null, void, and unacceptable.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed inked the MoU with Somaliland鈥檚 leader Muse Bihi Abdi in exchange for being granted commercial and naval access to the Red Sea port of Berbera.
BACKGROUND
Ethiopia and Somalia have a history of stormy relations and territorial feuds, fighting two wars in the late 20th century.
A resolution issued by the Arab League鈥檚 ministerial council on Jan. 17 declared backing for Somalia鈥檚 diplomatic efforts to tackle 鈥渢his perilous situation.鈥�
Jamal Rushdi, spokesman for the Arab League chief, said Aboul Gheit and Mohamud discussed ways to secure Arab, African, and international support for Somalia in upholding its unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.
They also considered how to help Somalia combat terrorism and strengthen its national institutions and economy.
Mohamud thanked the Arab League for its ongoing backing.