Somalia and Ethiopia Celebrate New Military Agreement, Indicating Improved Relations

Somalia and Ethiopia have signed a new military agreement between their respective defense forces, promoting mutual respect for territorial sovereignty. This pact is viewed as a vital step in restoring diplomatic ties and enhancing regional security after months of tension. Both nations committed to cooperation in security and economic affairs, with a focus on building historical ties and addressing sovereignty concerns regarding access to the sea.

MOGADISHU, Somalia – Somalia and Ethiopia have officially embraced a new military agreement between the Somali National Army (SNA) and the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF). This arrangement emphasizes mutual respect and adherence to each nation’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. General Odowaa Yusuf Rage of the SNA and Field Marshal Birhanu Jula met prior to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s session with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in Mogadishu, where they jointly approved the pact.

Following Abiy’s visit, a joint statement underscored this agreement as a significant advancement in enhancing security cooperation and promoting regional stability. Leaders from both nations recognized that this development is key to the ongoing normalization of diplomatic ties and discussed the necessity of deepening trust through robust diplomatic, economic, and social interactions.

Diplomatic relations between Ethiopia and Somalia had cooled due to a conflict sparked by Ethiopia signing an accord with Somaliland, a self-declared independent region of Somalia. In response, Somalia established a military pact with Egypt, traditionally an adversary of Ethiopia, and excluded ENDF from the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). However, a renewed partnership has now been formed, including the participation of ENDF in the AUSSOM mission.

The relationship was notably reinstated following President Mohamud’s visit to Ethiopia in January, resulting in agreements for full diplomatic representation and expanded economic and security cooperation. Turkey has played a vital role in mediating discussions between the two nations. Currently, AUSSOM troops comprise around 11,900 members from Kenya, Ethiopia, Djibouti, Egypt, and Uganda, though Burundi is considering withdrawing its forces due to disagreements over troop numbers.

In summary, Somalia and Ethiopia have taken significant strides toward re-establishing cooperative military and diplomatic relations through a newly formed military pact. This agreement represents a critical development in enhancing regional security and stability, while also marking a departure from recent diplomatic tensions. Continued collaboration is essential for mutual benefits and stability in the Horn of Africa.

Original Source: www.garoweonline.com