#Somalia - President Hassan Sheikh Mahmoud calls leaders of #Egypt, #Qatar
Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mahmoud, and Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi held a telephone call to discuss bilateral relations between the two countries.
The two leaders discussed “ways of developing joint cooperation, continuing coordination and deepening in various fields, in accordance with the historical nature of relations between the two countries”, according to the Spokesperson of President El-Sisi.
During the call, President El-Sisi “emphasized Egypt's firm position to stand by Somalia and support its security and stability.”
Similarly, President Hassan Sheikh Mahmoud called and spoke with Emir of #Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
“The two leaders discussed bilateral and regional relations of mutual interest, exploring opportunities to further develop the close bilateral cooperation between the two countries,” according to a readout from Villa Somalia.
Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mahmoud, and Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi held a telephone call to discuss bilateral relations between the two countries.
The two leaders discussed “ways of developing joint cooperation, continuing coordination and deepening in various fields, in accordance with the historical nature of relations between the two countries”, according to the Spokesperson of President El-Sisi.
During the call, President El-Sisi “emphasized Egypt's firm position to stand by Somalia and support its security and stability.”
Similarly, President Hassan Sheikh Mahmoud called and spoke with Emir of #Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
“The two leaders discussed bilateral and regional relations of mutual interest, exploring opportunities to further develop the close bilateral cooperation between the two countries,” according to a readout from Villa Somalia.
#Ethiopia- #Somaliland: Berbera Port and its potential benefits for Ethiopia
In a significant move, Ethiopia has recently signed a ''historic'' Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Somaliland to secure sea access and diversify seaport options. According to Redwan Hussien, National Security Advisor to PM Abiy, the MoU also involves gaining access to a leased military base on the Red Sea.
In a viewpoint article published in October, Abdirashid Ibrahim, Director-General of the Ministry of Trade and Tourism of Somaliland, presented a thorough analysis of the potential benefits of #Berbera_Port to Ethiopia's economy. Stressing its direct and efficient transportation route, Ibrahim suggested that the port could significantly reduce shipping times and costs for Ethiopian traders.
The article further advocated for the development of the Berbera Corridor, including road expansions from the port to the Ethiopian border, as essential for expanding trade opportunities. Anticipated improvements in port infrastructure, such as expanded container terminals and increased handling capacity, aim to accommodate the growing volume of trade.
Ibrahim also highlighted the potential establishment of a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) near Berbera Port to attract investments in manufacturing and processing sectors, leveraging the port's logistical advantages. This strategic development not only benefits Ethiopia but also contributes to the economic growth of Somaliland and the broader region, fostering shared prosperity and economic integration
https://addisstandard.com/viewpoint-berbera-port-and-its-potential-benefits-for-ethiopia/
In a significant move, Ethiopia has recently signed a ''historic'' Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Somaliland to secure sea access and diversify seaport options. According to Redwan Hussien, National Security Advisor to PM Abiy, the MoU also involves gaining access to a leased military base on the Red Sea.
In a viewpoint article published in October, Abdirashid Ibrahim, Director-General of the Ministry of Trade and Tourism of Somaliland, presented a thorough analysis of the potential benefits of #Berbera_Port to Ethiopia's economy. Stressing its direct and efficient transportation route, Ibrahim suggested that the port could significantly reduce shipping times and costs for Ethiopian traders.
The article further advocated for the development of the Berbera Corridor, including road expansions from the port to the Ethiopian border, as essential for expanding trade opportunities. Anticipated improvements in port infrastructure, such as expanded container terminals and increased handling capacity, aim to accommodate the growing volume of trade.
Ibrahim also highlighted the potential establishment of a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) near Berbera Port to attract investments in manufacturing and processing sectors, leveraging the port's logistical advantages. This strategic development not only benefits Ethiopia but also contributes to the economic growth of Somaliland and the broader region, fostering shared prosperity and economic integration
https://addisstandard.com/viewpoint-berbera-port-and-its-potential-benefits-for-ethiopia/
Addis Standard
Viewpoint: Berbera Port and its potential benefits for Ethiopia - Addis Standard
Viewpoint: Berbera Port and its potential benefits for Ethiopia Addis Standard Viewpoint -
#Ethiopia: Kesem Sugar Factory Requires 5 Billion Birr for Full Capacity Operations
The Kesem Sugar Factory is operating at only 23% of its full capacity, the Ethiopia News Agency reported today. The facility is actively seeking a 5 billion birr investment to address supply constraints and overcome sugarcane shortages affecting production.
The operation department manager, Ato Fiten Daba, highlighted that the factory's infrastructure, designed to process 60,000 quintals of sugarcane daily, is underutilized. The associated Kesem Dam can irrigate 20,000 hectares, yet only 3,000 hectares are actively cultivated for sugarcane.
To address this shortfall and elevate production to its intended level, the factory requires an expansion of its sugarcane cultivation to at least 12,000 hectares.
Read more at: https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1742452930916061348?s=20
The Kesem Sugar Factory is operating at only 23% of its full capacity, the Ethiopia News Agency reported today. The facility is actively seeking a 5 billion birr investment to address supply constraints and overcome sugarcane shortages affecting production.
The operation department manager, Ato Fiten Daba, highlighted that the factory's infrastructure, designed to process 60,000 quintals of sugarcane daily, is underutilized. The associated Kesem Dam can irrigate 20,000 hectares, yet only 3,000 hectares are actively cultivated for sugarcane.
To address this shortfall and elevate production to its intended level, the factory requires an expansion of its sugarcane cultivation to at least 12,000 hectares.
Read more at: https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1742452930916061348?s=20
#Sudan's RSF and Taqaddum Sign "Addis Ababa Declaration", Agree to Release Detainees
The Rapid Support Forces (#RSF) have reached an agreement with the Coordination of Civil Democratic Forces (#Taqaddum), culminating in the signing of the "Addis Ababa Declaration". The agreement includes a commitment to release over 450 detainees and establish an immediate ceasefire, aiming to bring an end to the conflict that has persisted for more than eight months.
Signed on January 2nd, 2024, the declaration was brokered with the involvement of former Prime Minister Abdallah Hamdok, representing Taqaddum, and RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, also known as "Hemetti". The agreement is a significant step towards de-escalation and sets the stage for a peaceful resolution in Sudan.
As part of the key provisions, the Addis Ababa Declaration stipulates the release of 451 prisoners of war and detainees, to be facilitated by the International Committee of the Red Cross (#ICRC). It also mandates the establishment of safe corridors to ensure that humanitarian aid can reach those affected by the conflict, alongside the formation of a National Committee for the Protection of Civilians.
The RSF has committed to an immediate halt of all military activities and will engage in direct negotiations with the Sudanese army. Parallel efforts by the Taqaddum to secure similar commitments from the army are underway. This collaborative approach is expected to lead to a comprehensive cessation of hostilities, with oversight from national and international monitors.
https://sudantribune.com/article280911/
The Rapid Support Forces (#RSF) have reached an agreement with the Coordination of Civil Democratic Forces (#Taqaddum), culminating in the signing of the "Addis Ababa Declaration". The agreement includes a commitment to release over 450 detainees and establish an immediate ceasefire, aiming to bring an end to the conflict that has persisted for more than eight months.
Signed on January 2nd, 2024, the declaration was brokered with the involvement of former Prime Minister Abdallah Hamdok, representing Taqaddum, and RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, also known as "Hemetti". The agreement is a significant step towards de-escalation and sets the stage for a peaceful resolution in Sudan.
As part of the key provisions, the Addis Ababa Declaration stipulates the release of 451 prisoners of war and detainees, to be facilitated by the International Committee of the Red Cross (#ICRC). It also mandates the establishment of safe corridors to ensure that humanitarian aid can reach those affected by the conflict, alongside the formation of a National Committee for the Protection of Civilians.
The RSF has committed to an immediate halt of all military activities and will engage in direct negotiations with the Sudanese army. Parallel efforts by the Taqaddum to secure similar commitments from the army are underway. This collaborative approach is expected to lead to a comprehensive cessation of hostilities, with oversight from national and international monitors.
https://sudantribune.com/article280911/
Sudan Tribune
RSF to release over 450 prisoners, says ready for immediate ceasefire in Sudan
January 2, 2023 (ADDIS ABABA) – In a move towards de-escalating the conflict, the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), after over eight months of confrontations, pledged to sign an unconditional cessation of hostilities immediately, release more than…
#Ethiopia: Displaced Tigrayans face starvation, plead for assistance
In #Abergelle_Yechila, #Tigray region, a cry for help rises from over 800 internally displaced persons (#IDPs), who have been suffering since fleeing the war in Western Tigray in November 2020. These individuals have faced three years of hardship without receiving enough aid.
During an interview with Tigray TV, Abaynesh Trfneh, one of the displaced, recounted the distress of homelessness and the acute hunger resulting from ongoing food shortages. Her experiences reflect the struggles of many IDPs in the region, who are desperately trying to satisfy their fundamental needs.
Zeferu Gebrehaweriyat, who coordinates volunteer efforts, highlighted the grim reality that the IDP community has been enduring neglect for over three years. He issued an urgent plea: "We urgently call on all relevant organizations to take action to avert further loss of life among our IDPs."
In #Abergelle_Yechila, #Tigray region, a cry for help rises from over 800 internally displaced persons (#IDPs), who have been suffering since fleeing the war in Western Tigray in November 2020. These individuals have faced three years of hardship without receiving enough aid.
During an interview with Tigray TV, Abaynesh Trfneh, one of the displaced, recounted the distress of homelessness and the acute hunger resulting from ongoing food shortages. Her experiences reflect the struggles of many IDPs in the region, who are desperately trying to satisfy their fundamental needs.
Zeferu Gebrehaweriyat, who coordinates volunteer efforts, highlighted the grim reality that the IDP community has been enduring neglect for over three years. He issued an urgent plea: "We urgently call on all relevant organizations to take action to avert further loss of life among our IDPs."
#Iranian warship enters #Red_Sea as tensions rise
#Iran dispatched a naval frigate to the Red Sea amid an escalating standoff between Western nations and Tehran-backed militants that has seen maritime traffic attacked by drones, missiles and speedboats.
Iran’s Tasnim news agency reported Monday that the warship Alborz crossed the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and entered the busy waterway, where a U.S.-led coalition is already stationed. According to Iranian officials, the 51-year-old vessel, originally sold to the shah of Iran by Britain, will supervise naval missions in the Indian, Pacific and Atlantic oceans.
The move adds Iran’s military into an increasingly volatile crisis unfolding in the Red Sea, where tensions have soared in the wake of the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip.
https://www.politico.eu/article/iran-warship-red-sea-suez-canal-yemen-houthi/
#Iran dispatched a naval frigate to the Red Sea amid an escalating standoff between Western nations and Tehran-backed militants that has seen maritime traffic attacked by drones, missiles and speedboats.
Iran’s Tasnim news agency reported Monday that the warship Alborz crossed the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and entered the busy waterway, where a U.S.-led coalition is already stationed. According to Iranian officials, the 51-year-old vessel, originally sold to the shah of Iran by Britain, will supervise naval missions in the Indian, Pacific and Atlantic oceans.
The move adds Iran’s military into an increasingly volatile crisis unfolding in the Red Sea, where tensions have soared in the wake of the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip.
https://www.politico.eu/article/iran-warship-red-sea-suez-canal-yemen-houthi/
POLITICO
Iranian warship enters Red Sea as tensions rise
Worsening violence in the strategic waterway that links Europe and Asia could have far-reaching repercussions.
#Ethiopia-#Somaliland: The President of Somaliland Muse Bihi Abdi and his delegation received a warm welcome this morning upon arriving at #Jigjiga Garad Wilwal Airport in the #Somali regional state.
President Bihi and his delegation was received by the President of Somali Regional State Mustafa Omer and other senior officials of the regional state, which shares a border with Somaliland.
According to regional media Karamara TV, the two sides held discussions on "security and trade cooperation" matters.
President Bihi continued his state visit to Ethiopia following the signing on Monday of a "historic" Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed which includes providing sea access for Ethiopia’s Naval Forces in exchange for international recognition.
President Bihi and his delegation was received by the President of Somali Regional State Mustafa Omer and other senior officials of the regional state, which shares a border with Somaliland.
According to regional media Karamara TV, the two sides held discussions on "security and trade cooperation" matters.
President Bihi continued his state visit to Ethiopia following the signing on Monday of a "historic" Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed which includes providing sea access for Ethiopia’s Naval Forces in exchange for international recognition.
#NewsAlert: #IGAD “diligently monitoring” developments between #Ethiopia, #Somalia; ‘recognizes the potential implications for regional stability’
IGAD’s statement came one day after Somalia has rejected a “historic” MoU signed between Ethiopia and #Somaliland granting Ethiopia access to the sea in return for international recognition for Somaliland. Somalia has also recalled its Ambassador to Addis Abeba, Abdullahi Warfa “for consultations.”
IGAD said it was “diligently monitoring the situation and recognizes the potential implications for regional stability” but made no reference of the MoU between Ethiopia and Somaliland.
Furthermore, the regional bloc said that given the circumstances, Dr. Workneh “urges IGAD leaders to be seized, and appeals to the two sisterly countries to collaborate towards a peaceful and amicable resolution of the situation, upholding the shared values that unite the IGAD family.” https://wp.me/p7BpQh-aye
IGAD’s statement came one day after Somalia has rejected a “historic” MoU signed between Ethiopia and #Somaliland granting Ethiopia access to the sea in return for international recognition for Somaliland. Somalia has also recalled its Ambassador to Addis Abeba, Abdullahi Warfa “for consultations.”
IGAD said it was “diligently monitoring the situation and recognizes the potential implications for regional stability” but made no reference of the MoU between Ethiopia and Somaliland.
Furthermore, the regional bloc said that given the circumstances, Dr. Workneh “urges IGAD leaders to be seized, and appeals to the two sisterly countries to collaborate towards a peaceful and amicable resolution of the situation, upholding the shared values that unite the IGAD family.” https://wp.me/p7BpQh-aye
Addis Standard
NewsAlert: IGAD 'diligently monitoring' developments between Ethiopia, Somalia; 'recognizes the potential implications for regional…
NewsAlert: IGAD 'diligently monitoring' developments between Ethiopia, Somalia; 'recognizes the potential implications for regional stability' Addis Standard Ethiopia -
News: ‘In-depth assessment’ of #Somaliland’s recognition bid by #Ethiopia part of #MoU
In its first detailed and significant statement following the signing of “historic” Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Somaliland, the Ethiopian government said part of the MoU “includes provisions for the Ethiopian government to make an in-depth assessment towards taking a position regarding the efforts of Somaliland to gain recognition.”
The government also said the “comprehensive MoU for partnership and cooperation reflects efforts made by the two parties to further strengthen their friendship and responds to the historic questions of both parties,” and that for Somaliland, it “enables to acquire the type of assistance and partnership they cannot get from any other country and also responds to their longstanding demands.”
https://wp.me/p7BpQh-ayq
In its first detailed and significant statement following the signing of “historic” Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Somaliland, the Ethiopian government said part of the MoU “includes provisions for the Ethiopian government to make an in-depth assessment towards taking a position regarding the efforts of Somaliland to gain recognition.”
The government also said the “comprehensive MoU for partnership and cooperation reflects efforts made by the two parties to further strengthen their friendship and responds to the historic questions of both parties,” and that for Somaliland, it “enables to acquire the type of assistance and partnership they cannot get from any other country and also responds to their longstanding demands.”
https://wp.me/p7BpQh-ayq
Addis Standard
News: 'In-depth assessment' of Somaliland's recognition bid by Ethiopia part of MoU - Addis Standard
News: 'In-depth assessment' of Somaliland's recognition bid by Ethiopia part of MoU Addis Standard Politics -
#Mogadishu calls on #IGAD to 'withdraw' Ethiopia-Somalia statement and 'to immediately apologize'
The government of Somalia expressed its "deep dissatisfaction and disappointment" with today's statement by the Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, regarding recent developments between Ethiopia and Somalia.
IGAD said this afternoon that it was “diligently monitoring the situation and recognizes the potential implications for regional stability,” but made no reference of the MoU between Ethiopia and Somaliland. Dr. Workneh also "IGAD leaders to be seized, and appeals to the two sisterly countries to collaborate towards a peaceful and amicable resolution of the situation, upholding the shared values that unite the IGAD family.”
Read more at: https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1742555884381704544?s=20
The government of Somalia expressed its "deep dissatisfaction and disappointment" with today's statement by the Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, regarding recent developments between Ethiopia and Somalia.
IGAD said this afternoon that it was “diligently monitoring the situation and recognizes the potential implications for regional stability,” but made no reference of the MoU between Ethiopia and Somaliland. Dr. Workneh also "IGAD leaders to be seized, and appeals to the two sisterly countries to collaborate towards a peaceful and amicable resolution of the situation, upholding the shared values that unite the IGAD family.”
Read more at: https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1742555884381704544?s=20
#Somaliland Government “urges all concerned parties to respect” #MoU with #Ethiopia
“This momentous agreement will usher in unprecedented stability and cooperation in the dynamic Horn of Africa region.”
“The Government of the Republic of Somaliland calls upon all concerned parties to honor the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for Partnership and Cooperation signed between the Republic of Somaliland and the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia on January 1st, 2024. The Government of Somaliland emphasizes the importance of sovereign nations engaging in bilateral agreements that promote regional cooperation without external interference. To ensure this, we urge concerned parties to adhere to principles of international cooperation, diplomatic practice and mutual respect when addressing regional affairs, particularly to the Horn of Africa region.”
Full statement: https://mfa.govsomaliland.org/article/somaliland-government-urges-all-concerned-parties-or-respect
“This momentous agreement will usher in unprecedented stability and cooperation in the dynamic Horn of Africa region.”
“The Government of the Republic of Somaliland calls upon all concerned parties to honor the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for Partnership and Cooperation signed between the Republic of Somaliland and the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia on January 1st, 2024. The Government of Somaliland emphasizes the importance of sovereign nations engaging in bilateral agreements that promote regional cooperation without external interference. To ensure this, we urge concerned parties to adhere to principles of international cooperation, diplomatic practice and mutual respect when addressing regional affairs, particularly to the Horn of Africa region.”
Full statement: https://mfa.govsomaliland.org/article/somaliland-government-urges-all-concerned-parties-or-respect
#Ethiopia-#Somaliland MOU Discussed with Diplomatic Corps
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported that it conducted a briefing for the diplomatic community stationed in Addis Ababa on the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) recently signed between the Government of Ethiopia and Somaliland.
During the briefing, Ambassador Redwan Hussain, National Security Adviser to the Prime Minister, outlined the MoU's capacity to broaden Ethiopia's maritime access, offering additional sea gate and port options. He stressed the significance of the agreement in reinforcing Ethiopia's commitment to regional peace and security.
Gedion Themotewos (PhD), Minister of Justice, detailed that the MoU extends beyond maritime access, encompassing a comprehensive framework for cooperation between Ethiopia and Somaliland in sectors such as trade, investment, technology, agriculture, and tourism.
Read more at: https://twitter.com/addisstandard/status/1742783310382629103?t=6whDeQv9XJKHiV3PpWhvKQ&s=19
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported that it conducted a briefing for the diplomatic community stationed in Addis Ababa on the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) recently signed between the Government of Ethiopia and Somaliland.
During the briefing, Ambassador Redwan Hussain, National Security Adviser to the Prime Minister, outlined the MoU's capacity to broaden Ethiopia's maritime access, offering additional sea gate and port options. He stressed the significance of the agreement in reinforcing Ethiopia's commitment to regional peace and security.
Gedion Themotewos (PhD), Minister of Justice, detailed that the MoU extends beyond maritime access, encompassing a comprehensive framework for cooperation between Ethiopia and Somaliland in sectors such as trade, investment, technology, agriculture, and tourism.
Read more at: https://twitter.com/addisstandard/status/1742783310382629103?t=6whDeQv9XJKHiV3PpWhvKQ&s=19
#AUC Chairperson calls for calm, mutual respect to de-escalate “simmering tension” between #Ethiopia and #Somalia
The Chairperson of the Commission of the African Union, Moussa Faki Mahamat, said he has been “closely following the tension” from signing on Monday of #Ethiopia-#Somaliland Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
The Chairperson “urged the two countries to refrain from any action that unintentionally may lead to a deterioration of the good relations between the two neighbouring Eastern African countries.”
“He stresses the imperative to respect unity, territorial integrity and full sovereignty of all African Union member states including Federal Republic of Somalia and Federal Democratic republic of Ethiopia,” the statement said.
Full statement: https://au.int/en/pressreleases/20230103/chairperson-commission-calls-mutual-respect-between-ethiopia-somalia
The Chairperson of the Commission of the African Union, Moussa Faki Mahamat, said he has been “closely following the tension” from signing on Monday of #Ethiopia-#Somaliland Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
The Chairperson “urged the two countries to refrain from any action that unintentionally may lead to a deterioration of the good relations between the two neighbouring Eastern African countries.”
“He stresses the imperative to respect unity, territorial integrity and full sovereignty of all African Union member states including Federal Republic of Somalia and Federal Democratic republic of Ethiopia,” the statement said.
Full statement: https://au.int/en/pressreleases/20230103/chairperson-commission-calls-mutual-respect-between-ethiopia-somalia
#Kenya: President Ruto holds talks with #RSF leader Hemedti in #Nairobi
The leader of #Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) held talks with President William Ruto of Kenya on Wednesday amid regional diplomatic efforts to try to forge a ceasefire in the war at home.
Kenya is the latest leg of Mohamed Hamdan Daglo's first trip abroad since the fierce fighting erupted between the RSF and the Sudanese army in mid-April.
President Ruto posted pictures on X of him meeting with Daglo, saying Kenya appreciated the commitment of the RSF and Daglo "in ending the conflict in Sudan through dialogue."
"The ongoing Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) talks should bring about a political settlement that would effect a lasting peace in the country," he added.
https://www.theeastafrican.co.ke/tea/news/east-africa/president-ruto-holds-talks-with-rsf-leader-hemedti-in-nairobi-4481676
The leader of #Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) held talks with President William Ruto of Kenya on Wednesday amid regional diplomatic efforts to try to forge a ceasefire in the war at home.
Kenya is the latest leg of Mohamed Hamdan Daglo's first trip abroad since the fierce fighting erupted between the RSF and the Sudanese army in mid-April.
President Ruto posted pictures on X of him meeting with Daglo, saying Kenya appreciated the commitment of the RSF and Daglo "in ending the conflict in Sudan through dialogue."
"The ongoing Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) talks should bring about a political settlement that would effect a lasting peace in the country," he added.
https://www.theeastafrican.co.ke/tea/news/east-africa/president-ruto-holds-talks-with-rsf-leader-hemedti-in-nairobi-4481676