The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has released a statement addressing the current developments in the Horn of Africa, particularly in light of the recent military aid delivered by Egypt to Somalia. This move has heightened tensions in the region, with significant implications for Ethiopia.

The impending establishment of a new peacekeeping mission by the African Union (ATMIS) in Somalia, along with Egypt’s recent military aid to Somalia, has raised concerns for Ethiopia regarding its potential impact on the stability of the Horn of Africa.

At a time when the African Union and the United Nations are preparing for this new transition, the region is facing challenges that threaten its stability. Despite repeated calls and concerns from Ethiopia and other countries that have deployed troops under the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), these concerns have not been adequately addressed. Ethiopia is particularly concerned about the implications of Egypt’s military involvement in Somalia, especially given the historical tensions between Ethiopia and Egypt over the construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) on the Nile River.

Ethiopia views Egypt’s recent actions, including the signing of a security pact with Somalia and the delivery of military aid, as a deliberate attempt to destabilize the region. The Mogadishu government, which has aligned itself with Egypt, has threatened to expel Ethiopian troops who are part of the peacekeeping mission unless the Somaliland deal is canceled. This move by Somalia, coupled with Egypt’s support, could lead to further instability in the region.

Ethiopia remains vigilant and closely monitors any developments that could threaten the region’s national security. It is important to note that Ethiopia will not remain silent while other actors take steps to undermine the stability of the Horn of Africa.

Ethiopia is committed to promoting peace and stability in Somalia and the surrounding region, continuing its efforts to foster cooperation and mutual understanding among the peoples of the region. Ethiopia will also actively participate in any upcoming dialogue platforms aimed at resolving its current differences with the Somali government. Positive outcomes from these discussions have already been observed. However, the Somali government appears to be collaborating with foreign powers, including Egypt, that aim to destabilize the region rather than focusing on strengthening peace efforts.

The responsibility for organizing and authorizing the new peacekeeping mission in Somalia lies with the relevant bodies, and they should give due consideration to the legitimate concerns of countries that have previously contributed troops to the region. Those who seek to destabilize the region for short-term gains and self-serving agendas will ultimately bear the consequences of their actions. Ethiopia will not tolerate actions that endanger its hard-won successes against both local and international extremist groups.

Ethiopia maintains a firm stance in favor of peaceful resolutions and, in cooperation with the Somali people and the international community, remains committed to safeguarding the region’s peace and stability.

Background on Egypt-Somalia Relations

On August 28, 2024, Reuters reported that Egypt delivered its first military aid to Somalia in over four decades, following the signing of a security pact between the two nations earlier this month. This development has strained relations between Somalia and Ethiopia, particularly after Ethiopia’s recent agreement with the breakaway region of Somaliland, which Somalia views as a violation of its sovereignty.

Egypt’s involvement in Somalia, including the potential deployment of troops along the Ethiopian border, has raised concerns about a possible proxy conflict in the region. Turkey has attempted to mediate the situation, hosting two rounds of indirect talks between Somalia and Ethiopia, with a third round expected soon.

The Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ statement highlights the broader implications of these developments and reaffirms Ethiopia’s commitment to regional stability and security.

August 28, 2024
Office of the Spokesperson
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia