Ethiopian troops have been approved to join the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia following a visit by Ethiopian defense minister Aisha Mohammed Mussa, aimed at easing tensions related to a controversial naval base agreement in Somaliland. Ongoing diplomatic efforts are necessary to combat Al-Shabaab and stabilize relations between the two countries.
Ethiopian troops have received approval to participate in the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) following a high-level visit from Ethiopia’s defense minister. This visit marks the first by a senior Ethiopian official to Somalia after a tumultuous year characterized by tensions stemming from a contentious agreement that could have allowed Ethiopia to establish a naval base and commercial port in Somaliland. Ethiopia confirmed its commitment to the mission, aiming to bolster defense strategies against Al-Shabaab militants while fostering improved bilateral relations with Somalia.
The visit by Aisha Mohammed Mussa, Ethiopia’s defense minister, comes after significant diplomatic efforts to mend relations strained by Ethiopia’s ambitions in Somaliland. Somalia’s state minister for foreign affairs confirmed the visit but refrained from detailing the specific discussions. However, Ethiopia’s Foreign Affairs Ministry publicly declared that the two countries agreed to enhance collaboration on the AUSSOM mission, reaffirming their commitment to mutual sovereignty and respect for territorial integrity.
Historically, Ethiopia has maintained a military presence in Somalia for over two decades, contributing around 10,000 soldiers to combat Al-Shabaab. Nonetheless, Somalia’s government had threatened to expel Ethiopian troops unless the controversial agreement regarding the naval base was rescinded. Turkish mediation recently helped to reduce hostilities, leading to a cooperative spirit aimed at establishing mutually beneficial commercial arrangements. The ongoing threat from Al-Shabaab remains a critical issue, as the group continues to exert considerable control over substantial portions of Somalia.
Ethiopia and Somalia have a complex relationship marked by both cooperation and conflict. Over the years, Ethiopia has played a significant role in Somalia’s military landscape, primarily through its involvement in defeating Al-Shabaab, a militant group that has caused widespread instability in the region. The controversial agreement regarding a potential Ethiopian naval base in Somaliland heightened tensions, leading to calls for the expulsion of Ethiopian troops from Somalia. Recent diplomatic efforts, particularly facilitated by Turkey, aimed to ease these tensions and foster a constructive dialogue between the two nations. The African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) is crucial for peacekeeping efforts in the region, and Ethiopia’s participation is seen as essential for the overall stability of Somalia. The recent agreement is indicative of a mutual understanding to respect each other’s sovereignty while also confronting common threats such as terrorism. Al-Shabaab continues to pose a significant risk, leveraging instability to maintain its influence. The success of the AUSSOM mission depends on effective collaboration between Ethiopian forces and Somali authorities to mitigate this threat and support the stabilization of Somalia.
In conclusion, the approval of Ethiopian troops to partake in the AUSSOM mission signifies a pivotal step toward stabilizing relations between Ethiopia and Somalia. The visit of Ethiopia’s defense minister not only underscores Ethiopia’s commitment to enhancing security in the region but also highlights a shared determination to combat the persistent threat from Al-Shabaab. The recent diplomatic dialogues are vital in ensuring both nations can navigate their complexities while fostering peace and security within Somalia.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
