Somalia has announced new directives imposed on vessels using Somali waters, with the aim of increasing, according to the government, monitoring and control of Somali waters.
All ships entering Somali waters have been ordered to fly the Somali flag. This move is part of a broader strategy to improve national security and compliance with the country’s laws, according to a statement published by the Somali news agency SONNA.
In addition to the requirements of the flag, ships crossing the sea of Somalia, have been instructed to give notice to the authorities in the country, and comply with the procedures established by the Ministry of Ports and Maritime Transport.
However, Somalia has recently signed agreements to defend its sea with Turkey, which is a close friend of Somalia. Turkey will help Somalia to maintain maritime security for 10 years.
The government sees these new orders as underlining how Somalia wants to strengthen its maritime security and protect it from unauthorized or illegal activities.
The Somali government is now focusing on removing the agreement that violates the sovereignty of Somalia, which Ethiopia signed with Somaliland, the agreement that allows Ethiopia access to Somali waters.
Ethiopian Foreign Minister Taye Atskeselassie on Friday underlined that access to the sea is still an important issue for Ethiopia, a country of 110 million people.
