Ethiopia and Somalia Finalize ENDF Deployment Agreement within AUSSOM

Ethiopia and Somalia have reached an agreement on the deployment of the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) within the AUSSOM framework to bolster regional security. The accord was established following diplomatic talks between leaders from both countries, emphasizing cooperation and respect for Somalia’s sovereignty. Recent tensions stemming from Ethiopia’s agreements with Somaliland were alleviated through mediation efforts, reinforcing their commitment to stability in the Horn of Africa.

Ethiopia and Somalia have reached an accord regarding the deployment of the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) within the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). This agreement was announced in a joint communiqué following a visit by an Ethiopian delegation, led by Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, on February 22. This visit occurred after discussions between Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud earlier in February, highlighting the necessity of cooperation for regional security and stability in the Horn of Africa.

The Ethiopian delegation included prominent figures, such as Redwan Hussein, head of the National Intelligence and Security Service, and other high-ranking officials. Somali military leadership, represented by Maj. Gen. Odawa Yusuf Rage and Abdullahi Mohamed Ali, stressed the significance of the bilateral ties and welcomed the Ethiopian officials, reinforcing the commitment to mutual cooperation. The dialogue aims to address security concerns and the broader implications for both nations’ stability.

The agreement occurs against the backdrop of recent diplomatic strains stemming from Ethiopia’s memorandum of understanding with Somaliland, which Somalia perceived as a violation of its territorial integrity. In response to these tensions, the Somali government asserted that Ethiopia would not partake in the replacement of ATMIS and opted to strengthen its military alliance with Egypt, fostering the deployment of Egyptian troops to Somalia.

Nevertheless, diplomatic efforts have led to a reduction in tensions, particularly following the Ankara Declaration facilitated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, which included leaders from both nations. In January 2025, during a significant visit led by Ethiopian Defense Minister Aisha Mohammed, both countries reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation to ensure AUSSOM’s success, as stated by Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The communiqué emphasized the importance of building on the successes achieved under ATMIS and highlighted the pivotal role of the ENDF in African Union peace operations. Both nations reiterated that the Federal Government of Somalia would serve as the sole point of entry for Ethiopian activities in Somalia, thereby affirming mutual respect for Somalia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and unity.

Furthermore, the two governments resolved to establish a Status of Force Agreement (SOFA) for Ethiopian forces operating in Somalia, which is considered a crucial aspect of the defense cooperation mutual understanding signed in December 2023. This collaboration seeks to enhance operational effectiveness while ensuring adherence to agreed-upon legal frameworks.

In summary, Ethiopia and Somalia have agreed on the deployment of the ENDF within AUSSOM, enhancing their cooperative measures regarding regional security. The agreement signifies a commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the Horn of Africa while reaffirming respect for Somalia’s sovereignty. Efforts to build on past successes and implement a Status of Force Agreement demonstrate a proactive approach to defense cooperation between the two nations.

Original Source: addisstandard.com