Somalia is re-evaluating its decision to exclude Ethiopian troops from a multinational anti-insurgent force, indicating improved diplomatic relations. Aisha Mohammed Mussa, the Ethiopian Defense Minister, met with Somali officials to discuss participation in the mission. Turkey’s mediation led to an agreement resolving key disputes, allowing Ethiopia to potentially rejoin the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission focused on combating al-Shabaab terrorism.
Somalia is reconsidering its earlier decision to exclude Ethiopian troops from a multinational force designated to combat Islamist insurgents, suggesting a thaw in diplomatic relations between the two nations. Ethiopian Defense Minister Aisha Mohammed Mussa visited Mogadishu to engage in discussions regarding her country’s role in the mission, as confirmed by Somali Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ali Balcad.
Ethiopia has significantly contributed to the United Nations-backed operations against al-Qaeda-linked militants in Somalia for nearly two decades. However, tensions arose after Somalia opposed Ethiopia’s potential participation in future missions due to a year-long conflict over Ethiopia’s proposition to acknowledge Somaliland, a breakaway region, in exchange for port access.
Following brokered negotiations held in Ankara last month between the two countries, a resolution of their longstanding disagreements was achieved. Balcad indicated, “Given that the contentious issues between Somalia and Ethiopia have been resolved through the Ankara Declaration, Somalia is ready to reconsider the inclusion of the Ethiopian National Defense Force in the upcoming AUSSOM mission.”
Diplomatic representatives had warned that preventing Ethiopia from joining the force could heighten tensions, particularly as Ethiopia faces threats from al-Shabaab militants and seeks to reaffirm its active role in regional stability. On December 27, the UN Security Council renewed the peacekeeping force’s mandate in Somalia, although it did not secure adequate funding resources for its operations, as reported by Balqiis Insights, a think tank based in Mogadishu.
The diplomatic relations between Somalia and Ethiopia have historically been fraught with tension, particularly in light of Ethiopia’s military involvement in regions claimed by Somalia, including Somaliland. Ethiopia has played a crucial role in the multinational force combating terrorism in Somalia, contributing to the stability of the region. The situation escalated due to differing perceptions over Somaliland’s status, which Ethiopia appeared to support in exchange for strategic interests. Recent negotiations, facilitated by Turkey, mark a significant mitigation of these tensions, as both countries appear to prioritize cooperation against common threats.
The recent developments suggest an important shift in the relationship between Somalia and Ethiopia, with Somalia signaling a willingness to reintegrate Ethiopian forces into its military operations against insurgents. This reconciliation, prompted by diplomatic efforts in Ankara, may pave the way for enhanced cooperation in addressing the pervasive threats posed by extremist factions in the region. However, the sustainability of this collaboration will depend on securing financial resources necessary for the continued effectiveness of peacekeeping missions.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
