Somalia and Ethiopia recently signed a military pact, promoting security cooperation and improving bilateral relations. This agreement, highlighted by key meetings between military generals and political leaders, follows months of diplomatic strain. Both countries aim to enhance regional stability while respecting each nation’s sovereignty, facilitated by Turkey’s mediation during diplomatic negotiations.
Somalia and Ethiopia have jointly endorsed a military agreement between the Somali National Army (SNA) and the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF), which aims to foster collaboration grounded in mutual respect and a commitment to each country’s territorial integrity. The pact was affirmed during a recent meeting between General Odowaa Yusuf Rage of the SNA and Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, following President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s hosting of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in Mogadishu.
In a joint statement issued after the Prime Minister’s visit, the leaders of both nations emphasized that the agreement is a significant step towards enhancing security cooperation and regional stability. They acknowledged the normalization of relations following months of diplomatic tensions, underscoring their historical ties and the necessity of building trust through enhanced diplomatic, economic, and social collaboration.
Relations between Ethiopia and Somalia deteriorated last year due to Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland, which would have provided access to the Red Sea at the cost of Somalia’s territorial claims. In response, Somalia allied with Egypt and restricted Ethiopian involvement in the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). Consequently, both nations have reached a consensus on integrating ENDF into the AUSSOM, which has been operational since January.
The culmination of these discussions can be traced back to President Mohamud’s visit to Ethiopia in January, a pivotal moment that led to commitments regarding full diplomatic relations and expanded collaborative efforts. Mediation by Turkey has been instrumental in smoothing these discussions, facilitating an agreement on logistical access for Ethiopia that respects Somalia’s sovereignty.
The AUSSOM mission includes troops from Kenya, Ethiopia, Djibouti, Egypt, and Uganda, totaling 11,900 personnel. However, Burundi has indicated plans to withdraw its contingent over disagreements regarding troop numbers, as it seeks to deploy an additional 1,000 soldiers to reinforce its contribution.
In conclusion, the new military pact between Somalia and Ethiopia marks a significant step towards improved relations, emphasizing mutual respect and cooperation in defense matters. Following a period of tension, both nations are now reinvigorating their bilateral engagement, focusing on shared security interests and regional stability. The collaborative efforts rejuvenate long-standing ties and demonstrate a commitment to dialogue and diplomacy.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
