Ethiopia has announced its support for a new African Union peacekeeping force in Somalia to combat Al-Shabaab insurgents, signaling a restoration of cooperative relations after a period of tension. This collaboration follows a diplomatic compromise brokered by Turkey, culminating in a visit from Ethiopian Defense Minister Aisha Mohammed. The peacekeeping mission, AUSSOM, aims to replace the previous AU transition mission and enhance regional stability, contingent on contributions from several partner nations.
Ethiopia has recently confirmed its support for a new African Union (AU) peacekeeping mission in Somalia, targeting the Islamist group Al-Shabaab. Despite previous tensions between Mogadishu and Addis Ababa, which stemmed from a maritime agreement involving Somalia’s breakaway region of Somaliland, a compromise was reached last month, facilitated by Turkish mediation. Ethiopian Defense Minister Aisha Mohammed visited Somalia, bringing a message from Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, reinforcing the commitment to collaborative efforts for peace and stability in the region. The two nations will contribute jointly to the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). This mission is set to replace the UN-backed African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), which previously managed a troop presence as a countermeasure to Al-Shabaab’s threat. The United Nations Security Council sanctioned the new AU mission following the approval of a resolution by fourteen of its fifteen members, while the United States abstained over financial concerns. As part of the discussions, Somalia’s representatives indicated that agreements were in place to supply approximately 11,000 troops from allied nations to support the AUSSOM initiative. The collaborative efforts of both nations aim to ensure ongoing peace amidst various regional challenges, particularly after recent violent incidents along their shared border.
The recent announcement by Ethiopia to collaborate on a new peacekeeping force in Somalia underscores the shifting dynamics of regional politics in the Horn of Africa. For years, Ethiopia played a significant role in Somali security through previous peacekeeping missions, but relations soured in light of maritime agreements signed with Somaliland. This new commitment, however, represents a considerable diplomatic achievement for both nations, as it aims to mitigate security threats posed by Al-Shabaab insurgents and stabilize the region. With the transition from ATMIS to AUSSOM, both countries are working towards a more robust framework for regional cooperation and peacekeeping, initiated by the pressing need to address the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crises in Somalia.
In summary, Ethiopia’s backing of the newly established AU peacekeeping force in Somalia marks a significant development in regional security collaboration following previously strained relations. This partnership, stemming from high-level diplomatic engagements, represents a commitment to combatting the menace of Al-Shabaab and restoring stability in Somalia. With the United Nations Security Council’s endorsement of the AUSSOM mission, the coordinated efforts are poised to facilitate a structured response to the ongoing challenges faced by both nations and strengthen ties in the process.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
