Ethiopia Demands Inclusion in AUSSOM Formation Amid Regional Tensions
Ethiopia has rallied the Troops Contributing Countries (TCCs) to oppose Somalia’s unilateral approach to the AUSSOM mission, insisting on their necessary involvement. Ethiopia is committed to supporting Somalia’s stabilization efforts but stresses the need for a collaborative process in the mission’s establishment, arguing for adequate funding and consideration of past operational lessons, despite Somalia’s opposition and rising regional tensions.
Ethiopia has summoned the Troops Contributing Countries (TCCs) to unite against Somalia’s perceived unilateralism regarding the formation of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). The TCCs, with Ethiopia at the helm, assert their essential participation in the establishment of this mission, emphasizing the importance of their contributions throughout the years in Somalia. During a meeting that convened the Defense Ministers of the TCCs, Ethiopian Defense Minister Aisha Mohammed expressed Ethiopia’s unwavering commitment to supporting Somalia’s stabilization. The resulting joint communiqué acknowledged the vital role played by TCCs over the past seventeen years in combating terrorism and fostering governmental stability within Somalia. Nevertheless, for AUSSOM to flourish, the defense ministers urged the African Union to reassess its funding strategy, as a budget shortfall is hindering operations against Al-Shabaab, which continues to exert control over significant regions of central and southern Somalia. The ministers advocated for the incorporation of lessons learned from previous operations, specifically from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) when designing the new mission for AUSSOM. Somalia, however, has signaled opposition to Ethiopia’s involvement, citing concerns regarding its territorial integrity and sovereignty, particularly in light of Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland for Red Sea access. The situation has been further complicated by Egypt deploying military personnel and weaponry to Mogadishu, alarming Ethiopia regarding the implications for regional stability stemming from the transition phase from ATMIS. A recent tripartite summit involving Somalia, Egypt, and Eritrea culminated in an agreement to bolster Somalia’s capacities to secure its land and maritime boundaries.
The context of the discussions surrounding the formation of AUSSOM is rooted in Ethiopia’s historical involvement in Somalia, particularly through the TCCs that have contributed to security operations over the past decades. The need for collaboration in establishing the mission reflects ongoing tensions between regional stakeholders as various nations navigate the complexities of governance, security, and territorial integrity in this strategically significant area. The African Union’s role in stabilizing Somalia has been a critical issue, particularly in light of operational funding and the coordination of efforts among TCCs. The existing threats posed by groups like Al-Shabaab have heightened the urgency for a cohesive response, underscoring the delicate balance between national interests and collective security initiatives in the Horn of Africa.
In summary, Ethiopia and other TCCs assert their need for an inclusive approach in the formation of AUSSOM, countering Somalia’s objection to Ethiopia’s participation. While the defense ministers emphasize the importance of reviewing funding mechanisms for effective operations against Al-Shabaab, the geopolitical landscape remains complex, marked by concerns over territorial sovereignty. Ethiopia’s historical engagement and the ongoing dialogue between the involved nations highlight the challenges inherent in establishing a cooperative security framework in the region.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
