On 1 January, Ethiopia signed a deal with the breakaway region of Somaliland, leasing coastal territory near the Berbera port, in exchange for recognition of the region and a stake in Ethiopian Airlines. This move, designed to ensure Ethiopia's maritime access, has resulted in Somalia recalling its ambassador to Ethiopia and seeking international support, labelling the agreement an 'act of aggression' that threatens its 'sovereignty and territorial integrity'. Ethiopia continues to argue that the deal does not constitute recognition of Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991, but has not yet been internationally recognised.