Djibouti Offers Port to Ethiopia in Hopes of Easing Regional Tensions
Djibouti's Strategic Proposal to Ease Regional Tensions
Djibouti has proposed a strategic solution to ease regional tensions in the Horn of Africa by offering Ethiopia exclusive use of the Port of Tadjoura. This move is seen as a response to Ethiopia’s ongoing efforts to secure direct access to the sea, which has fueled tensions with neighboring countries. Ethiopia, landlocked since Eritrea’s secession in 1993, currently relies heavily on Djibouti’s main port for its international trade. However, its pursuit of alternative routes, including a proposed agreement with Somaliland, has raised concerns in the region.
Djibouti’s offer to grant Ethiopia access to Tadjoura is aimed at countering Somaliland’s growing influence, particularly following Somaliland’s deal with Ethiopia that granted it shoreline access at the Port of Berbera. Djibouti’s Foreign Minister, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, emphasized that the rising tensions in the Horn of Africa are a “major source of concern” and that Djibouti’s proposal could help stabilize the situation. The Port of Tadjoura, developed with a $90 million investment, is well-positioned to serve Ethiopia’s needs, offering modern facilities and strategic access to the Gulf of Aden.
This proposal is also seen as a defensive measure by Djibouti to protect its maritime interests from the emerging competition posed by Somaliland’s Port of Berbera. The Port of Berbera has gained prominence, ranking higher than Djibouti in the World Bank’s Container Port Performance Index. Djibouti’s offer, which includes full management of the northern port, reflects its desire to maintain its position as a key player in regional trade and maritime affairs. The ongoing tensions, exacerbated by Egypt’s involvement in arming Somalia, underscore the urgency of finding a peaceful resolution to the region’s challenges.
