By Goth Mohamed Goth
Addis Ababa-The Minister of Commerce and Tourism of the Republic of Somaliland, Mr. Abdirahman Hassan Nur, led a delegation to Addis Ababa this week, engaging in pivotal talks with Ethiopian officials to bolster cross-border trade and regional cooperation. Accompanied by Mr. Ridwan Abdurashid Sh. Mohamed, Director of the Minister’s Office, and Somaliland’s Trade Attaché in Ethiopia, Minister Nur met with Dr. Kassahun Gofe, Ethiopia’s Minister of Trade and Regional Integration, to advance shared economic priorities.
During the meeting, Minister Gofe emphasized Ethiopia’s commitment to deepening ties with Somaliland, stating, “Our historic relationship and geographic proximity create immense opportunities for mutual growth.” Key outcomes of the discussions include:
1. Enhanced Bilateral Trade. Both parties pledged to expand cooperation under a proposed Simplified Trade Regime (STR), designed to reduce bureaucratic hurdles, lower tariffs, and stimulate commerce for businesses and communities along shared borders.
2. Accelerated Agreements: The ministries agreed to prioritize finalizing pending trade and cross-border goods exchange pacts, with a focus on swift ratification to unlock new economic opportunities.
3. Joint Technical Committee: A bilateral task force will be formed to operationalize the STR and draft actionable strategies for resolving trade bottlenecks, improving customs efficiency, and fostering people-to-people ties.
Minister Nur highlighted the significance of the talks, remarking, “This collaboration marks a critical step toward economic integration, benefiting millions in both regions.”He further thanked Ethiopia for its hospitality and presented Minister Gofe with a symbolic gift reaffirming Somaliland’s commitment to partnership.