US, AU express concerns over the brewing tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The United States has delved into the ongoing conflict between Somalia and Ethiopia, which could further escalate instability in the Horn of Africa, a region that has struggled to establish relations and cooperation for the last six decades.

In a statement issued by State Department spokesperson Mathew Miller, the US expressed “serious concern” over the diplomatic crisis in the Horn of Africa; and recognised Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity “within its 1960 borders.”

The US is the first major superpower to delve into the matter which was triggered by Ethiopia's decision to sign an agreement with Somaliland, a breakaway region of Somalia, which if effected, would see Ethiopia get 20 kilometers of Red Sea with Somaliland getting recognition as a state.

“We did see those reports, we are concerned by them, we join other partners in expressing our serious concern as well about the resulting spike in tensions in the Horn of Africa," read the statement.

"We urge all stakeholders to engage in diplomatic dialogue, and the United States recognizes the sovereignty and the territorial integrity of the federal republic of Somalia within its 1960 borders.”

The Africa Union, a major security stakeholder in Somalia, similarly expressed concerns through AU Commission Chair Moussa Faki, who called for calmness as the matter is being settled amicably.

"In this regard, He urges the two countries to refrain from any action that unintentionally may lead to a deterioration of the good relations between the two neighboring Eastern African countries," AU said.

"He stresses the imperative to respect unity, territorial integrity, and full sovereignty of all African Union member states including the Federal Republic of Somalia and the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia ."

Furthermore, the Chairperson underscores the importance of adhering to the norms of good neighborliness to promote and consolidate peace, security, and stability in the Horn of Africa region, the statement further read.

GAROWE ONLINE