Ethiopia’s Territorial Ambitions: Somalia President’s Strong Rebuttal

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud criticized Ethiopia for its ongoing attempts to annex Somali territory, citing a colonial history of occupation. He asserted that recent defense agreements with Egypt and Turkey are intended to protect Somalia’s sovereignty against Ethiopian ambitions. The President expressed skepticism about the necessity of Ethiopian troops in combating al-Shabaab, emphasizing the Somali military’s capability. Conversely, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed confirmed his country’s pursuits for Red Sea access through peaceful negotiations with Somaliland, denying any aggressive territorial intentions.

Ethiopia’s ambitions regarding territorial expansion at the expense of Somalia were once again articulated by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. During his recent address to parliament, the President criticized Ethiopia for its persistent desire to annex Somali land, highlighting that this has been an ongoing issue since colonial times. President Mohamud underscored that despite past territorial incursions by Ethiopia, including the recent agreement allowing Ethiopia access to the Red Sea, Somalia remains committed to safeguarding its sovereignty. The Somali leader pointedly remarked that Ethiopia’s colonial legacy of occupying Somali land is unacceptable and that its recent actions violate international laws regarding territorial integrity. He emphasized that while Ethiopia has shown interest in accessing the Red Sea through peaceful means, it cannot simultaneously hold a prominent role in the African Union and disregard the organization’s founding principles. To counter the perceived threats from Ethiopia, Somalia has forged defense partnerships with Egypt and Turkey, which the President believes will not only strengthen Somalia’s defense but also mitigate Ethiopian ambitions. Furthermore, President Mohamud asserted that the presence of Ethiopian troops within the framework of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) is unwarranted as Somalia has demonstrated its capability to combat the terrorist group al-Shabaab independently. He stated, “We have liberated many parts of our country from Khawaarij without Ethiopia; they did not fire one shell a day,” emphasizing the efficacy of Somali military operations against the group. Meanwhile, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed reiterated his government’s commitment to obtaining Red Sea access through diplomatic means, distancing Ethiopia from any implications of aggressive territorial claims. He clarified that Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland, perceived by some as a territorial acquisition, was a mutual understanding intended to facilitate access to the sea for Ethiopia while recognizing Somaliland’s sovereignty.

The long-standing tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia germinate from historical territorial disputes exacerbated during colonial times. Ethiopia has periodically expressed a desire to access the strategically important Red Sea, which has led to various agreements and conflicts between the neighboring states. The situation has been complicated by the presence of Ethiopian troops in Somalia, tasked with combating terrorism under the African Union, and the evolving dynamics of regional security partnerships, particularly with nations like Egypt and Turkey. The leadership in Somalia has voiced concerns over Ethiopian expansionism and the implications of such actions on Somalia’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, particularly in light of international law. The recent agreements between Ethiopia and Somaliland signify a shift in the geopolitical landscape of the Horn of Africa, provoking apprehension among Somali leaders about perceived encroachment on Somali land.

The ongoing conflict over territorial claims in the Horn of Africa reflects deep-rooted historical grievances and contemporary diplomatic maneuvers. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s statements articulate Somalia’s steadfast resistance to what he perceives as Ethiopian imperialism, underscoring the complexity of the region’s geopolitical tensions amid efforts to maintain sovereignty and safeguard national interests. As both leaders articulate divergent narratives regarding territorial access and regional security, the implications of these dynamics will continue to shape the relations between Ethiopia and Somalia, as well as influence regional stability.

Original Source: www.garoweonline.com