Somalia and Ethiopia have signed a military agreement aimed at improving security cooperation and restoring bilateral relations, disrupted by prior diplomatic tensions. This pact emphasizes mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, as both nations work toward renewed collaboration and regional stability.
Somalia and Ethiopia have expressed optimism regarding a newly established military agreement between the Somali National Army (SNA) and the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF). This arrangement emphasizes mutual respect and the commitment to uphold each nation’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. Key military leaders, General Odowaa Yusuf Rage of the SNA and Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, recently convened prior to a significant meeting hosted by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in Mogadishu, during which the deal was sanctioned.
Post discussions, both nations released a joint statement, recognizing the agreement between their military leaders as a pivotal achievement aimed at enhancing security collaboration and ensuring regional stability. The visit by the Ethiopian Prime Minister was acknowledged as a means to intensify the normalization of relations after prolonged negotiations. Together, both leaders underscored their deep-rooted historical connections and emphasized the importance of fostering trust through enhanced diplomatic, economic, and social exchanges.
The renewed engagement between Ethiopia and Somalia follows a period of diplomatic strains, primarily instigated by Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland. This prior arrangement provided Ethiopia access to the Red Sea at the expense of Somalia’s sovereignty. As a countermeasure, Somalia sought a military alliance with Egypt, highlighting the complexity of the regional dynamics. The recent military pact with Ethiopia allowed for the latter’s participation in the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).
The participation of Ethiopian forces in AUSSOM, which began in January, reflects an essential development in bilateral relations. Furthermore, Somalia and Ethiopia are currently working on establishing technical teams to explore viable solutions for Ethiopia’s sea access without infringing upon Somalia’s sovereignty. A significant shift occurred when President Mohamud visited Ethiopia in January, leading to an agreement on full diplomatic representation and bolstering economic and security ties, with mediation assistance from Turkey.
AUSSOM comprises troops from Kenya, Ethiopia, Djibouti, Egypt, and Uganda, totaling 11,900 personnel. Notably, Burundi has expressed intentions to withdraw its forces due to a dispute over troop numbers, seeking an additional 1,000 soldiers to be added to their contingent.
The recent military pact between Somalia and Ethiopia marks a significant development in bilateral relations, fostering enhanced cooperation and addressing past diplomatic challenges. It signifies a move towards deeper collaboration in security and economic matters. Moreover, the engagement of both nations is crucial for ensuring regional stability while respecting each other’s sovereignty.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
