Ethiopia open to dialogue over Somaliland deal - Official

Ethiopian national security adviser Redwan Hussien has said that Addis Ababa was "willing to listen to friends” in a bid to de-escalate tensions with Somalia over a controversial port deal with the self-declared republic of Somaliland.

"As part of our commitment, we shall redouble our effort to ensure a better understanding. Will listen to friends for possible coordination of efforts lowering rhetoric," Mr Redwan posted on X (formerly Twitter).

"Will continue striving to steadily reach a conclusion with amicable considerations which benefit all," he added.

On Monday, Mr Redwan criticised meddling by “opportunistic external actors” in the row between Somalia and Ethiopia.

The remarks were perceived as aimed at Egypt, which has warned against threats to Somalia's sovereignty.

The row was triggered by Ethiopia signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Somaliland early this month.

The deal gives landlocked Ethiopia access to a seaport for military and commercial purposes.