Somalia commended Burundian forces for their sacrifices in security efforts amid tensions over troop allocations for the new AUSSOM mission. Burundi demands more troops than Somalia has proposed, leading to diplomatic rifts. Somalia also opposes Ethiopian troop involvement due to prior regional tensions, complicating the situation further.
In a recent statement, Somalia’s Foreign Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi publicly commended the Burundian forces for their critical role in stabilizing Somalia and combating the Al-Shabaab threat. This acknowledgment comes amid rising tensions regarding the new African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), which has sparked disagreement over troop allocations. Burundi has expressed dissatisfaction with the proposed deployment of only 1,041 soldiers, arguing it is insufficient for the mission’s operational safety and effectiveness.
Minister Fiqi emphasized the enduring legacy of the Burundian troops, stating, “We deeply honor the Burundian forces of AMISOM/ATMIS for their sacrifices in supporting Somalia’s security and revival and fighting terrorism. Their bravery is etched in history, and Somalia remains forever grateful for their enduring legacy,” showcased in a tweet. Meanwhile, a Burundian diplomat conveyed the government’s frustration over what they perceive as a disregard for their troops, emphasizing a perceived lack of respect from Somali officials.
Furthermore, the situation is complicated by Somalia’s opposition to Ethiopian participation in the mission, an issue that arose from previous tensions between Ethiopia and the Somaliland region. Although these disputes have reportedly been reconciled in a recent meeting in Turkey, the relationship between the nations remains delicate as the deadline for the AUSSOM mission approaches, with Burundi contemplating withdrawal without a suitable resolution.
The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) was established to provide security support to Somalia amid persistent threats from militant groups, most notably Al-Shabaab. As part of this mission, troop-contributing countries like Burundi play a vital role in guaranteeing stability. With the transition to the AUSSOM, adjustments in troop allocations have become contentious, revealing underlying tensions between Somalia and its international partners, particularly Burundi. These disputes underscore the challenges of maintaining effective cooperation in peacekeeping missions.
In summary, while Somalia expresses its gratitude for the Burundian troops’ contributions to the nation’s security, the ongoing dispute over troop allocation threatens to overshadow this respect. The disparities in expectations between Somalia and Burundi highlight the complexities of international military cooperation in stabilization efforts. As negotiations continue, the potential withdrawal of Burundian forces looms if resolutions are not reached by the end of the year.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
