Ethiopia Warns Somalia Amid Rising Diplomatic Tensions
Ethiopian Foreign Minister Taye Atske Selassie recently addressed the growing diplomatic tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia, emphasizing that Ethiopia will not forget Somalia’s historical invasions and reiterating Ethiopia’s commitment to regional stability.
In his statement, Minister Taye underscored that some elements within the Somalia government are attempting to undermine Ethiopia’s position by spreading misinformation.
He acknowledged Somalia’s sovereignty and its right to establish diplomatic relations with any country. However, he stressed that these relationships must be forged in a manner that does not pose a threat to neighboring nations.
“Somalia’s peace is of great concern to us,” Minister Taye stated, reflecting on the sacrifices made by the Ethiopian Defense Forces to bring stability to Somalia.
“We are deeply invested in ensuring that chaos does not spill over our borders. We will not forget the invasions of Somalia during the reigns of Emperor Haile Selassie and the Derg, and we will continue our efforts to prevent Somalia from becoming a threat to Ethiopia again.”
When asked about Ethiopia’s potential response if the current tensions with Somalia continue, Minister Taye emphasized Ethiopia’s preference for peaceful resolution.
“Ethiopia will not resort to force unless absolutely necessary. Our priority is to protect our interests through diplomatic means, engaging in dialogue until Somalia comes to a reasonable understanding.”
Regarding concerns about Ethiopia’s broader diplomatic relations with neighboring countries, Minister Taye acknowledged that diplomatic challenges are natural. “Countries have differing needs, and inconsistencies are to be expected. Resolving these differences requires wisdom and patience.”
The minister also addressed the progress of the port agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland, which has been a point of contention.
“Ethiopia respects Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, but we also have pressing economic needs. With a population exceeding 120 million, Ethiopia cannot afford to be landlocked. The loss of our previous port access has been regrettable, but we are working diligently to secure a new port to alleviate this critical issue.”
Amid these ongoing diplomatic challenges, Ethiopia has accused Somalia of collaborating with foreign forces, particularly Egypt, to destabilize the Horn of Africa.
This accusation has heightened tensions in an already volatile region. The Ethiopian Foreign Ministry expressed deep concern over the situation in Somalia, describing it as “serious” and fraught with risks for regional stability.
This statement followed reports that Egypt, for the first time in four decades, has provided military aid to Somalia.
The development has alarmed Addis Ababa, especially given the strained relations between Ethiopia and Somalia after Ethiopia’s memorandum of understanding with Somaliland.
Egypt, which has long been in conflict with Ethiopia over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), has now openly aligned itself with Somalia, further complicating the regional geopolitical landscape.
Earlier this month, Egypt signed a military security agreement with Mogadishu, committing to send troops for a new peacekeeping mission in Somalia.
This agreement has intensified Ethiopia’s concerns, particularly in light of the delicate peace process in Somalia and the ongoing transition from the African Union Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).
