Somali government must cease hosting forces that undermine Ethiopia's national interests: MoFA

KT News 01-09-2024/:  The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia (MoFA) has urged the Somali government to cease hosting forces that undermine Ethiopia's national interests. During a press conference, the Minister of Fpreign Affairs, Ambassador Taye Atsiksilase, emphasized that Ethiopia prioritizes strong relations with its neighboring countries as part of its foreign policy. He noted that despite Ethiopia’s efforts to resolve disputes with Somalia through diplomatic channels, some Somali officials have exacerbated tensions.

Ambassador Taye highlighted Ethiopia's past sacrifices for Somalia’s stability, expressing disappointment over the denigration of the Ethiopian Defense Forces by certain Somali government representatives. 

He reaffirmed Ethiopia's commitment to fostering dialogue with Somalia and continuing the fight against the regional threat posed by al-Shabaab, a terrorist group that affects not just Somalia but the broader region.

The Ambassador also warned that Somalia's alliances with destabilizing forces pose a significant threat to regional peace. He stressed that any peacekeeping force deployed in Somalia should not jeopardize Ethiopia’s security. 

Additionally, he cautioned that the involvement of external actors in the peacekeeping process could potentially undo the progress achieved thus far. Nonetheless, Ethiopia remains dedicated to resolving its disputes with Somalia through peaceful and diplomatic means.