Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has condemned Ethiopia’s persistent efforts to annex Somali territory, claiming historical grievances while asserting that Somalia wishes to safeguard its sovereignty through defense agreements with Egypt and Turkey. The Somali leader argues that Ethiopia’s dual role within the African Union is contradictory as it pursues territorial goals. Meanwhile, Ethiopian PM Abiy Ahmed advocates for peaceful access to the Red Sea, denying any aggressive intentions.
In a vehement address to the Somali parliament, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has condemned Ethiopia’s persistent territorial ambitions towards Somalia. He articulated his concerns regarding the Addis Ababa administration’s desire to annex Somali land, which he claims dates back to colonial times. President Mohamud did not specify the areas in question but emphasized that Ethiopia has previously appropriated territory without significant opposition and that its latest ambitions contradict international law. President Mohamud asserted, “Ethiopia occupies Somali land from colonial times and aims to take more now,” reinforcing his claims that the country is intent on extending its territorial reach. He underscored that Somalia has pursued defense agreements with Egypt and Turkey to bolster its security and counter Ethiopian ambitions, contending that these agreements would not destabilize the Horn of Africa. Referring to the recent pact allowing Ethiopia access to the Red Sea in exchange for recognition of Somaliland, President Mohamud criticized Ethiopia’s dual role as the headquarters of the African Union (AU) while allegedly violating AU principles. He stressed that Ethiopia must not expect to benefit from such agreements at the expense of Somalia’s sovereignty. The President also addressed concerns regarding Ethiopian troops in Somalia, which are part of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS). He asserted that Somalia does not rely on Ethiopian troops for the defeat of Al-Shabaab, indicating a desire for their withdrawal ahead of the planned African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). He rebutted claims that without Ethiopian military presence, Al-Shabaab would regain control. In a parallel statement, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed reiterated the country’s desire for peaceful access to the Red Sea, rejecting the notion of pursuing it through force. He remarked, “Ethiopia does not seek this access through war or force” and insisted that access to the Red Sea is a legitimate right under international law. He also clarified that the discussions with Somaliland had mistakenly been portrayed as an attempt by Ethiopia to seize territory from Somalia. Emphasizing diplomatic engagements, Prime Minister Abiy affirmed that Ethiopia had initially considered a 99-year lease for access to the sea but ultimately accepted Somaliland’s preference for a 50-year agreement.
The ongoing tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia regarding territorial disputes stem from historical grievances rooted in colonial designs that have shaped current geopolitical dynamics in the Horn of Africa. Ethiopia, historically, has sought to expand its influence and control over regions that it claims as part of its national interests. Recently, agreements between Ethiopia and Somaliland have added a layer of complexity to the situation, particularly regarding access to the Red Sea, which is of strategic importance to both countries. Somalia’s response, led by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, indicates a strong desire to assert its sovereignty and discourage external ambitions that may infringe upon its territory.
In conclusion, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s recent statements underscore a significant tension between Somalia and Ethiopia regarding territorial integrity and sovereignty. The President’s condemnation of Ethiopia’s ambitions reflects a broader concern for national security and the future of regional stability. With defense agreements with other nations and a firm stance against external military presence in Somalia, Mohamud aims to assert Somalia’s sovereignty amidst perceived encroachments by Ethiopia. Meanwhile, Ethiopian PM Abiy Ahmed’s emphasis on peaceful negotiations hints at a complex interplay of diplomacy and claims that will shape the region’s dynamics going forward.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
