Somalia Insists on Withdrawal of Controversial Ethiopia Agreement Before Negotiations
Somalia demands the withdrawal of a controversial agreement with Somaliland before engaging in negotiations with Ethiopia, emphasizing the need to respect its sovereignty. Despite Kenya and Uganda’s mediation offers, Somalia insists that progress is unattainable until the agreement is nullified. Ambassador Ilyas Ali Hassan highlights past failures in negotiations due to Ethiopia’s lack of good faith, reiterating Somalia’s commitment to peaceful dialogue and stability in the region.
The Federal Republic of Somalia has firmly stated that it will only enter into negotiations with Ethiopia following the withdrawal of a contentious agreement involving Somaliland. This stance underscores the importance of respecting Somalia’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. In light of ongoing tensions, which have persisted since January 2024, Kenya and Uganda have proposed to mediate the conflict; however, Somalia insists that the mediation efforts can only commence once the agreement is annulled. Ambassador Ilyas Ali Hassan emphasized that without the formal declaration nullifying the January 1, 2024, Memorandum of Understanding, any progress towards resolution remains unlikely. He urged foreign nations to uphold the sovereignty of Somalia and avoid actions that undermine it. Although there have been previous mediation attempts that were deemed unsuccessful due to Ethiopia’s perceived lack of good faith, Somalia continues to prioritize peaceful dialogue. The Somali government remains committed to promoting regional stability and cooperation, reinforcing its position on sovereignty while seeking to engage in meaningful talks.
The contentious agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland has heightened tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia. Territorial disputes in the Horn of Africa are sensitive issues, and Somalia’s insistence on the abolition of the agreement before any diplomatic discussions highlights its concerns regarding national sovereignty. The potential mediation by Kenya and Uganda stems from a need to stabilize regional relations, following a protracted period of deteriorating ties between Somalia and Ethiopia that began in early 2024. The situation reflects broader complexities of regional politics marked by historical grievances and power dynamics.
In conclusion, Somalia’s declaration that it will only engage in negotiations with Ethiopia post-withdrawal of the disagreement illustrates its commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Despite offers from Kenya and Uganda for mediation, the Somali government maintains that meaningful dialogue is contingent upon the annulment of the January 2024 agreement. It reflects Somalia’s broader goals of fostering peace and regional stability while challenging any actions perceived to violate its sovereignty.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
