Geopolitical Implications of Rapprochement Between Ethiopia and Somaliland

 The Emirates Policy Center published on 1 July 2026 a paper titled "Between Maritime Access and Recognition: Geopolitical Implications of Rapprochement Between Ethiopia and Somaliland."

The prospect of landlocked Ethiopia securing maritime access through Somaliland highlights the intersection of Addis Ababa's structural need for a maritime outlet and Hargeisa's ambition to strengthen its legitimacy and bargaining power--without pressing for immediate formal recognition.

The most likely scenario in the foreseeable future is the gradual expansion of economic and logistical cooperation between Ethiopia and Somaliland, without sovereign arrangements or formal recognition.  While the option of recognition or sovereign maritime privileges remains possible, it is less likely and would require deeper regional and international transformations.  

China-Liberia Maritime Cooperation

 The New Republic Liberia published on 22 October 2025 an article titled "Liberia, China Strengthen Maritime Education, Training Ties."

The CEO of the Liberia Maritime Authority met with senior executives of the Shanghai Maritime University to discuss collaboration in maritime education, training, and technology exchange.  They expect to sign a MOU in December.  

Countering China in Indian Ocean Through Partnerships

 The Atlantic Council published on 16 August 2023 a paper titled "Indian Ocean Partnerships Are Key to Countering China's Maritime Ambitions" by Delharty Manson and Nicholas Nunez.  

The paper compares China's growing engagement in the Indian Ocean with the presence of US forces and suggests the best way for Washington to counter China's expansion is to build stronger ties with countries in the region.