Thursday January 18, 2024
Mogadishu (HOL) - CIA Director William Burns visited Mogadishu on Wednesday, where he met with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Mahad Salad, the head of the Somali National Intelligence Agency.
Sources close to President Mohamud confirmed to VOA that Burns discussed various issues, including critical points of the agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland. The meeting, which took place at Mogadishu International Airport, covered topics such as "security cooperation, the fight against terrorism, and developments in the region."
The ongoing crisis between Somalia and Ethiopia revolves around a controversial Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on New Year's Day. The agreement involves Ethiopia leasing a 20-kilometre coastal stretch in Somaliland for a commercial port and military base. The Somali government strongly opposes the deal, labelling it as "aggression" and a "clear violation of sovereignty."
On Tuesday, the White House opposed the agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland, citing concerns about potential instability and threats to international counterterrorism efforts.
John Kirby, coordinator of strategic communications for the National Security Council, expressed concern, stating that Ethiopia's potential recognition of Somaliland "threatens to disrupt the fight" against al-Shabab. Kirby emphasized the administration's unease with the reported contents of the agreement, highlighting their support for Somalia's sovereignty and territorial integrity, emphasizing the need for respect.
During his regional tour over the past two days, Director Burns visited Nairobi and discussed with Kenyan President William Ruto and the intelligence director.
In recent developments, US Central Command reported two missing sailors off Somalia's coast, confirming ongoing search and rescue operations.