The United States government has said that it is against the recent agreement between the government of Ethiopia and Somaliland.
A statement from the White House expressed concern that the agreement could lead to instability and disrupt international efforts to prevent terrorism.
John Kirby, the US National Security Council’s liaison coordinator, told reporters that Ethiopia’s recognition of Somaliland would jeopardize the fight against Al-Shabaab.
“We support the independence of Somalia and its territorial sovereignty, and it should be respected,” said John Kirby.
Ethiopia and Somaliland signed a memorandum of understanding on January 1, which allows Ethiopia to establish a military base on the coast of Somaliland.
In return, Ethiopia has promised Somaliland international recognition.
“We don’t believe the region can afford another conflict,” Kirby said again.
However, IGAD has announced a meeting to discuss the tensions between the two countries, which will be held on the 28th of this month in Uganda.
However, Ethiopia is reluctant to participate in the conference.
