Somalia is re-evaluating the exclusion of Ethiopian troops from a multinational force against Islamist insurgents, following a thaw in diplomatic relations prompted by talks brokered by Turkey. Ethiopian Defense Minister Aisha Mohammed Mussa met with Somali officials to discuss participation in the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission. This potential inclusion comes after conflicts regarding Ethiopia’s recognition of Somaliland were resolved.
Somalia is contemplating a reversal of its earlier decision to exclude Ethiopian troops from a multinational force aimed at combating Islamist militants. This shift indicates a thawing of diplomatic relations between the two nations. Ethiopian Defense Minister Aisha Mohammed Mussa visited Mogadishu for discussions regarding Ethiopia’s involvement in this mission, as stated by Somali Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Ali Balcad.
Ethiopia has historically been a significant contributor to the United Nations-backed effort against al-Qaeda-linked groups in Somalia for nearly two decades. Tensions arose when Somalia objected to Ethiopia’s offer to recognize the breakaway territory of Somaliland in exchange for access to a port, leading to Ethiopia’s potential exclusion from future efforts.
However, following recent negotiations facilitated by Turkey in Ankara, an agreement was reached to resolve these issues. Consequently, Somalia is now ready to reassess Ethiopia’s role in the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission (AUSSOM). Balcad remarked, “Given that the contentious issues between Somalia and Ethiopia have been resolved through the Ankara Declaration, Somalia is ready to reconsider the inclusion of the Ethiopian National Defense Force in the upcoming AUSSOM mission.”
Officials had previously warned that excluding Ethiopia could heighten the risk of conflict, given that the country has been targeted by al-Shabaab militants and has sought to maintain its participation in counter-terrorism initiatives. The United Nations Security Council endorsed a renewal of the peacekeeping force’s mandate in Somali territories on December 27, though concerns were raised regarding the sustainability of its funding.
The diplomatic relations between Somalia and Ethiopia have been historically fraught with tensions, particularly surrounding issues of territorial recognition and military collaboration. Ethiopia has been a pivotal military ally in countering terrorism, specifically in combating al-Shabaab. The breakthrough in negotiations brokered by Turkey signifies a concerted effort from both nations to foster stability in the Horn of Africa by enhancing cooperation against common threats. Previous disputes revolved around Ethiopia’s stance on Somaliland, which complicated their military partnership.
The renewed dialogue between Somalia and Ethiopia, culminating in the Ankara Declaration, marks a significant step toward stabilizing the region. By reconsidering Ethiopia’s involvement in the AUSSOM mission, both countries are actively working to address their differences and strengthen their collaborative efforts against militant threats. Such cooperation not only benefits the two nations but also contributes to regional peace and security in the Horn of Africa.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
