Somalia and Ethiopia have established a military pact aimed at enhancing cooperation and fostering stability. This agreement, finalized before a key meeting between their leaders, signifies a thaw in bilateral relations after a period of diplomatic tension. Both countries have reinforced their commitment to mutual respect and cooperation in security matters.
Somalia and Ethiopia have expressed approval for a recently established military agreement between the Somali National Army (SNA) and the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF). This pact is rooted in mutual respect for each nation’s territorial integrity and aims to foster cooperation. General Odowaa Yusuf Rage of the SNA and Field Marshal Birhanu Jula finalized this agreement shortly before Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s visit with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in Mogadishu, where both leaders endorsed it.
Following Prime Minister Abiy’s trip, the two countries issued a joint statement declaring the military deal as a crucial move for enhancing security cooperation and promoting regional stability. They acknowledged this development as a step towards restoring bilateral relations, which had been strained in recent months. The leaders highlighted their historical connections and the significance of establishing trust through comprehensive diplomatic and economic collaborations.
The renewed engagement between Ethiopia and Somalia comes after a year of diplomatic tensions stemming from Ethiopia’s pact with Somaliland, which threatened Somali sovereignty by granting Ethiopia access to the Red Sea. In response, Somalia established a military agreement with Egypt and restricted ENDF participation in the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).
However, both nations have recently come to terms regarding the participation of the ENDF in AUSSOM, which commenced in January. They are also working with technical teams to identify solutions for Ethiopia’s access to maritime resources while preserving Somalia’s territorial rights.
President Mohamud’s visit to Ethiopia earlier this year marked a significant shift, leading to commitments for increased diplomatic engagement and enhanced economic and security cooperation. Turkey has played a key role in mediating this reconciliation process. AUSSOM troops, contributed by Kenya, Ethiopia, Djibouti, Egypt, and Uganda, total approximately 11,900 personnel, while Burundi has indicated potential withdrawal pending an agreement on troop numbers.
The military pact between Somalia and Ethiopia signifies a major step towards enhanced security collaboration and the normalization of diplomatic relations. After a year marked by tensions, both countries are focusing on building trust and cooperation while respecting each nation’s sovereignty. This agreement, alongside other diplomatic initiatives, indicates a commitment to regional stability and mutual respect in addressing shared security challenges.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
