Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Addis Standard2
Published on 2024-02-22 13:37:31
The Permanent Mission of Ethiopia to the United Nations has issued a statement expressing its disappointment with what it views as unjustified accusations made by Somalia during a UN Security Council briefing on 19 February, 2024. In this statement, Ethiopia strongly objects to the comments made by Somalia’s UN representative during the briefing, describing them as outright false information and a continuation of yet another unjustifiable accusation.
While declining to engage in a direct counter-argument to these claims out of respect for the fraternity between the Ethiopian and Somali peoples, the statement firmly defended Ethiopia’s recent port access agreement with Somaliland. It stated that this agreement is neither unprecedented nor contrary to international practices, positioning the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Ethiopia and Somaliland as a win-win partnership that will secure Ethiopia with a sea outlet, with no intention of harming any other country’s interests.
Additionally, the statement highlighted Ethiopia’s enormous sacrifices and contributions to the peace and security of Somalia, including the thousands of Ethiopian lives lost helping fight Al-Shabaab. It emphasized that Ethiopia remains ready for dialogue with Somalia to maintain the cooperative ties that are vital to regional security. Both countries, as eternal neighbors, should focus on partnership moving forward rather than engage in damaging accusations, according to the statement.
In response to these events, Catriona Laing, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Somalia and Head of the UN Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM), addressed members of the Security Council on 19 February, 2024. Laing expressed disappointment at the lack of significant progress after the AU summit to defuse tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia.
The statement issued by the Permanent Mission of Ethiopia to the United Nations underscores the importance of dialogue and cooperation between Ethiopia and Somalia. It seeks to dispel what it views as false accusations and instead focus on the countries’ historical ties as well as their shared interests in maintaining regional peace and security.
The recent tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia have garnered considerable attention and have raised concerns about stability in the region. The willingness of both countries to engage in diplomatic dialogue and a commitment to cooperation is crucial to resolving existing tensions and fostering ongoing positive relations.
Ultimately, the statement by the Permanent Mission of Ethiopia to the United Nations aims to clarify Ethiopia’s position and stance on the recent accusations made by Somalia. It emphasizes the country’s contributions to regional peace and stability while also highlighting its commitment to maintaining a dialogue and cooperation with Somalia.
By expressing its disappointment and objection to the accusations, the statement underscores the significance of respectful and diplomatic relations between neighboring countries. It is clear that both Ethiopia and Somalia recognize the importance of dialogue and cooperation in furthering their shared interests and ensuring regional peace and security.
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