Somalia commends the Burundian Forces for their service in stabilizing the country while facing diplomatic strains concerning troop allocations in the AUSSOM transition. Burundi is dissatisfied with their assigned troop numbers, seeking additional soldiers for effective operational safety, resulting in tensions between the nations.
In a recent statement, Somalia’s Foreign Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi expressed significant gratitude towards the Burundian Forces for their role in stabilizing the nation amid ongoing tensions regarding the transition of the African Union (AU) Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). He emphasized the sacrifices made by these troops in combating Al-Shabaab and protecting Somali security, calling their legacy enduring and profound.
However, diplomatic friction has arisen as Burundi seeks to elevate its contingent from 1,041 to over 2,000 soldiers, arguing that the current allocation is inadequate, thereby endangering the safety and operational effectiveness of its forces. Somalia’s Defence Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur stated that the troop allocations were previously agreed upon despite Burundi’s objections. A Burundian diplomat voiced frustration over the perceived disrespect, indicating that unless negotiations resolve these disparities by December 31, their troops may withdraw. This contention comes alongside Somalia’s reluctance to include Ethiopian forces in the new mission, stemming from recent diplomatic tensions settled after discussions in Turkey.
The context of this situation lies in the ongoing efforts by the African Union to stabilize Somalia after years of conflict and insurgency. Burundian troops have historically been part of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), contributing to the fight against the militant group Al-Shabaab. The transition to the new AUSSOM mission has revealed tensions regarding troop allocations and the participation of external forces, highlighting the delicate balance of international military support in the region.
In summary, Somalia acknowledges the vital contributions of Burundian forces in securing the nation but faces diplomatic challenges regarding troop allocations amid the transition to a new mission framework. The differences over troop numbers have sparked discontent within Burundi, igniting calls for apologies and potential troop withdrawals, which could impact the security landscape in Somalia. Additionally, Somalia’s stance on Ethiopian participation remains a critical aspect of this evolving scenario.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
