Addis Ababa(Mogadishu24)-The Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed serious concerns about the transition from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) to a new peace support mission, warning of potential dangers to regional stability.
The ministry highlighted that, despite repeated calls by Ethiopia and other Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs), their concerns have not been adequately addressed.
"Ethiopia is being expected to ignore hostile statements and attempts to undermine the sacrifices of Ethiopian defense forces," the statement said Wednesday evening.
The ministry emphasized that Ethiopia will not stand by while actions are taken that could destabilize the region, asserting that the country is closely monitoring developments that could threaten its national security.
Ethiopia has played a significant role in promoting peace and security in Somalia and the broader region, fostering close bonds between the peoples of these nations.
The ministry noted that tangible progress had been made in discussions aimed at resolving differences with the Somali government. However, it accused the Somali government of colluding with external actors to destabilize the region rather than pursuing peaceful solutions.
The Ethiopian government urged those responsible for preparing and authorizing the new peace support mission to consider the legitimate concerns of regional countries and TCCs. The statement warned that those attempting to inflame tensions for short-term gains must bear the consequences of their actions.
Despite these challenges, Ethiopia reaffirmed its commitment to resolving differences peacefully and working with Somalia and the international community to ensure regional stability.
The statement follows the arrival of an Egyptian military plane in Mogadishu, carrying military equipment to support the Somali government. Egypt is also expected to participate in the new African Union Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) that will succeed ATMIS.
