Somalia has demanded that Ethiopia revokes its agreement with Somaliland as a condition for future talks, asserting that the deal undermines its territorial integrity. Foreign Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi clearly stated that no formal discussions could occur until the agreement is annulled, and emphasized the need for respect of Somalia’s sovereignty in the context of regional peacekeeping operations.
Somalia has firmly stated that Ethiopia must annul its agreement with Somaliland prior to any significant dialogue between the two nations. This declaration is part of Somalia’s efforts to safeguard its territorial integrity and sovereignty, which it believes have been compromised in recent weeks. Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, the Foreign Minister of Somalia, emphasized that no formal engagement could occur until Ethiopia renounces its memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Somaliland. The MoU in question grants Somaliland 20 kilometers of access to the Red Sea and simultaneously recognizes Somaliland’s sovereignty, a move that has drawn Somalia’s ire as it regards Somaliland as an integral part of its territory. Fiqi expressed discontent, stating, “This reckless move undermines Somalia’s territorial integrity, and we see no indication that Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed is prepared to reverse course and engage in any meaningful dialogue to resolve the issue.” Discussions have recently taken place in New York involving Turkish Foreign Affairs Minister Hakan Fidan, who engaged separately with both Somali and Ethiopian officials regarding the contentious agreement, which has attracted scrutiny from the international community. Despite Turkey’s attempts to mediate between the two countries, Somalia remains steadfast in its demand for the cancellation of the agreement. At the United Nations General Assembly, Somalia’s Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre reiterated the nation’s unwavering stance on its relationship with Ethiopia. Fiqi further elaborated on the situation by stating, “It’s a paradox. On one hand, Ethiopian forces are here under the pretext of peacekeeping, supposedly supporting stability in Somalia. Yet, on the other hand, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s government is actively violating our sovereignty through its backdoor agreements with Somaliland.” He also indicated a willingness to re-engage in talks if Ethiopia rescinds the agreement and restores the previous status before January 1st. However, Ethiopia is now facing intense pressure to withdraw its peacekeeping forces following Somalia’s insistence that the newly formed African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) should come under Egyptian control.
The recent diplomatic tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia have escalated due to Ethiopia’s endorsement of Somaliland as a separate entity through a memorandum of understanding. Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991, yet it remains internationally unrecognized. The agreement negotiated by Ethiopia allows access to the Red Sea for Somaliland, which Somalia contests fundamentally alters its territorial claim. Given Ethiopia’s historical involvement in Somalia’s peacekeeping efforts, these developments raise concerns over the balance between maintaining regional stability and respecting Somalia’s sovereignty.
In summary, Somalia’s government demands the cancellation of Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland as a precondition for re-establishing diplomatic dialogue. This situation highlights the complexities of regional politics where sovereignty and territorial integrity are at stake. Both nations must navigate these challenges to foster a constructive relationship moving forward.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
