Ethiopia has called for inclusion in the establishment of AUSSOM, opposing Somalia’s unilateral approach, and emphasizing the involvement of Troops Contributing Countries. Defense Minister Aisha Mohammed affirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to Somalia’s stabilization, while tensions regarding Ethiopia’s participation highlight broader geopolitical dynamics affecting the region.
Ethiopia has firmly positioned itself against Somalia’s unilateral approach to the establishment of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), emphasizing the necessity for consultation with Troops Contributing Countries (TCCs). During a recent congregation of defense ministers from TCCs, Ethiopia reiterated its commitment to aiding Somalia’s stabilization, insisting on its involvement in the formation of the new mission, as the contributions of TCCs must be recognized. Ethiopian Defense Minister Aisha Mohammed articulated the nation’s readiness to assist, accentuating the critical nature of cooperation in mission planning. The communiqué released following the ministers’ gathering highlighted the invaluable sacrifices that TCCs have made over the past seventeen years to combat terrorism in Somalia and to foster the development of governmental institutions within the Federal Government of Somalia. For AUSSOM to achieve its objectives, the ministers urged the African Union to address funding issues, noting that a budget deficit hampers operational efforts against Al-Shabaab militants, who continue to exert control over significant territories in southern and central Somalia. The defense ministers collectively emphasized the importance of learning from past experiences with the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) in crafting AUSSOM, particularly underlining the necessity of consulting the TCCs throughout the mission design process. This collaborative approach aims to ensure a comprehensive and effective strategy. Tensions have arisen, however, as Somalia has rejected Ethiopia’s participation in AUSSOM, accusing it of infringing upon territorial integrity and sovereignty, particularly in light of Ethiopia’s agreement concerning access to the Red Sea with Somaliland. Additionally, Ethiopia expressed concerns about regional stability following Egypt’s military involvement in Somalia, which has heightened apprehensions regarding the transition from ATMIS, described as posing significant risks for the region’s security. Recently, a summit attended by Somali, Egyptian, and Eritrean leaders occurred in Asmara, where initiatives to bolster Somalia’s capabilities to secure its borders were discussed.
The situation surrounding the establishment of AUSSOM is critical, given the ongoing instability in Somalia and the continuous threat posed by militant groups such as Al-Shabaab. The Troops Contributing Countries, particularly Ethiopia, have played a significant role in supporting Somali governmental institutions and countering terrorism for many years. However, as the African Union transitions from ATMIS to AUSSOM, issues of participation and funding have emerged as contentious points, particularly with Somalia’s resistance to Ethiopia’s involvement, invoking sovereignty concerns. The complex regional dynamics, exacerbated by military actions from neighboring states, further complicate the mission’s planning and execution.
In summary, Ethiopia’s insistence on being consulted in the formation of AUSSOM underscores the critical need for collaborative engagement among Troops Contributing Countries in the efforts to stabilize Somalia. The acknowledgment of past contributions, alongside calls for adequate funding and lessons learned from previous missions, are pivotal to ensuring the success of the new mission. Furthermore, regional tensions and sovereignty disputes highlight the importance of diplomatic dialogue to navigate the complexities of involvement in Somalia’s stabilization efforts.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
