Somalia and Ethiopia Establish New Military Pact to Strengthen Ties
Somalia and Ethiopia have signed a military agreement aimed at enhancing security cooperation and restoring bilateral relations. This agreement, ratified during a meeting between key military leaders and President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, highlights mutual respect for sovereignty. Renewed diplomatic efforts follow a period of tension triggered by Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland, and they promise to foster stability in the region.
The governments of Somalia and Ethiopia have expressed enthusiasm regarding a recent military agreement established between the Somali National Army (SNA) and the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF). This new collaboration prioritizes mutual respect and an unwavering commitment to each nation’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.
General Odowaa Yusuf Rage of the SNA and Field Marshal Birhanu Jula convened prior to a meeting in Mogadishu hosted by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, where both parties ratified the agreement. Following this significant visit, the two nations endorsed the pact as a pivotal development for strengthening security cooperation and enhancing regional stability.
Leaders from both countries acknowledged that this military pact is a reaffirmation of their longstanding relations following a period of diplomatic tensions. They highlighted their historical connections and the necessity for rebuilding trust through increased diplomatic, economic, and social collaboration.
The renewal of engagement comes after a year marked by diplomatic strife, primarily due to Ethiopia’s earlier agreement with Somaliland, a region seeking independence from Somalia. In response, Somalia had entered into a military agreement with Egypt, historically considered a rival to Ethiopia.
Recent agreements have enabled Ethiopian forces to engage in the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia, which commenced in January. Both nations are also collaborating to establish equitable maritime access for Ethiopia while safeguarding Somalia’s sovereignty.
President Mohamud’s visit to Ethiopia earlier this year was a crucial milestone, resulting in enhanced diplomatic representation and broader cooperation in economic and security matters. Notably, Turkey’s mediating efforts were instrumental in this diplomatic restoration.
The AUSSOM mission involves troops from various nations, totaling 11,900 personnel. However, there are ongoing discussions surrounding troop levels, as Burundi has signaled its intention to withdraw due to disagreements on troop numbers with Somalia.
The recent military pact between Somalia and Ethiopia marks a significant step towards revitalizing their bilateral relations following a period of tension, centered on mutual respect for sovereignty. This agreement aims to bolster cooperation in security and regional stability, ultimately benefiting both countries. As diplomatic engagements continue, the collaboration enhances trust and economic interaction, ensuring a more secure future for the Horn of Africa region.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
