Somalia has issued a stern warning to Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest carrier, threatening to suspend all flights to Somalia if unresolved sovereignty issues are not addressed. This escalating dispute is rooted in Ethiopia’s contentious relationship with Somaliland, a region that declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has not gained international recognition.
Earlier this year, Addis Ababa signed a memorandum of understanding with Somaliland, granting Ethiopia a 50-year lease on 20 kilometers (12 miles) of coastline. This agreement offers landlocked Ethiopia much-needed access to the sea. In exchange, Somaliland has indicated that Ethiopia could be the first nation to officially recognize its independence, a move that could have significant geopolitical ramifications. However, Addis Ababa has yet to confirm such recognition.
Ethiopian Airlines currently operates flights to Somaliland’s capital, Hargeisa, as well as Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu, and several other cities within Somalia. The Somali Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA) has expressed strong disapproval of Ethiopian Airlines’ recent actions, accusing the airline of undermining Somalia’s sovereignty. According to the SCAA, Ethiopian Airlines has been omitting clear references to Somali destinations, using only airport codes instead of proper city or country names, which the SCAA views as a deliberate slight.
In a letter published by Somali state media, the SCAA stated, “This action exacerbates the original concerns and undermines the sovereignty of Somalia.” The authority has made it clear that if these issues are not rectified by the given deadline, all Ethiopian Airlines flights to Somalia will be suspended.
Growing Frustrations Among Somali Travelers
The dispute has also highlighted broader frustrations among Somali travelers regarding their experiences with Ethiopian Airlines. The SCAA noted an increasing number of complaints from the Somali public, which have fueled the decision to take a harder stance against the airline.
The tension between Somalia and Ethiopia over Somaliland has simmered for years, but this latest development signals a potential turning point in their relations. If the suspension goes ahead, it could significantly impact travel and trade between the two nations, further straining diplomatic ties.
Fly Dubai Also Under Scrutiny
Ethiopian Airlines is not the only carrier facing scrutiny from Somali authorities. The SCAA also sent a warning to Fly Dubai, a government-owned airline based in the United Arab Emirates, regarding “serious violations” in its representation of Somali destinations on its booking and ticketing platforms. Fly Dubai, which suspended its Mogadishu route in June due to security concerns, has been given until August 24 to correct these issues or face revocation of its operating permit in Somalia.
Diplomatic Mediation in Progress
Amidst these escalating tensions, there have been ongoing diplomatic efforts to mediate the dispute. Türkiye has reportedly been involved in facilitating talks between Somalia and Ethiopia, aiming to find a resolution that respects Somalia’s sovereignty while addressing the strategic interests of Ethiopia.
The outcome of these negotiations remains uncertain, but the stakes are high for both Somalia and Ethiopia. The suspension of Ethiopian Airlines flights would not only disrupt air travel but could also have broader implications for the already fragile relationship between the two nations. As the deadline looms, all eyes are on whether Ethiopia and Somaliland will take steps to ease the tension or if Somalia will follow through on its threat, setting the stage for a new chapter in this complex regional saga.
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