Ethiopia vows to continue its fight against Al-Shabaab in Somalia despite tensions with the Somali government, which has accused it of compromising national sovereignty. The Ethiopian government views Al-Shabaab as a persistent security threat and affirms the inseparable ties between the two nations. Despite these commitments, diplomatic relations have soured, with Somalia demanding Ethiopian troop withdrawal following a controversial agreement with Somaliland.
The Government of Ethiopia has reaffirmed its commitment to combatting Al-Shabaab in Somalia, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding its hard-won victories against the militant group. Nebiat Getachew, spokesperson for Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, articulated that the nation recognizes Al-Shabaab as a significant threat to national security. He stated that the ongoing efforts to mitigate this threat are non-negotiable, aimed at preventing the group from regaining power or establishing any stronghold within the region. Moreover, Mr. Getachew highlighted the deep-rooted ties between Ethiopia and Somalia, asserting that the two nations are “inseparable” neighbors. He indicated that Ethiopia’s strategic initiatives would aim at bolstering regional integration in the long term. This declaration comes in light of escalating tensions following Somalia’s Defense Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur labeling Ethiopia as a ‘hostile’ state, particularly amid concerns surrounding an agreement with the breakaway region of Somaliland. Additionally, the Somali government has requested the withdrawal of Ethiopian troops from its territory by December 2024. This demand follows accusations that Ethiopia’s actions compromise Somalia’s sovereignty. The dynamics have escalated to diplomatic strains between the two countries, raising alarm among international observers regarding the potential resurgence of Al-Shabaab due to the current strife.
The situation between Ethiopia and Somalia has escalated recently due to contrasting views on military cooperation and territorial integrity. Both countries have engaged in collaborative efforts to tackle the menace posed by Al-Shabaab since the group’s emergence as a regional threat. However, tensions have surfaced, especially after Ethiopia’s agreements with Somaliland, leading to accusations of sovereignty breaches and a reevaluation of military cooperation between the nations. This backdrop underscores the fragile nature of security in the Horn of Africa and the potential implications for counterterrorism efforts.
In summary, Ethiopia remains steadfast in its mission to fight Al-Shabaab within Somalia, despite rising diplomatic tensions with the Somali government. The Ethiopian administration underscores the importance of maintaining security and regional stability. Nevertheless, the accusations against Ethiopia regarding territorial sovereignty have fueled a complex relationship, prompting an urgent need for dialogue to avert any resurgence of militant activity. The international community closely watches these developments due to their broader implications for security in the Horn of Africa.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
