ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia – Ethiopian Foreign Minister Taye Atske-Selassie has engaged in discussions with U.S. Assistant Secretary for African Affairs Catherine Molly Phee at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA79) regarding the future of Ethiopian troops in Somalia as part of the African Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS). The conversation highlighted Ethiopia’s intention to maintain its military presence in Somalia beyond the planned ATMIS withdrawal by the end of 2024.
Foreign Minister Atske-Selassie emphasized the strategic importance of Ethiopian forces in regions like Bay, Bakol, and Gedo, where they have been combating terrorism for over 15 years. He argued for a reconsideration of the ATMIS drawdown, suggesting that the premature withdrawal of these forces could jeopardize regional security efforts.
“It’s vital for us to continue our ongoing efforts to end the threat posed by terrorist groups,” Minister Atske-Selassie stated, underlining the role of Ethiopian troops in stabilizing Somalia and the broader Horn of Africa.
The discussions come at a sensitive time, as Somalia plans to replace ATMIS with a new mission, potentially involving troops from Egypt, a move that has raised concerns in Ethiopia. This proposed shift in military presence is seen against the backdrop of heightened tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia, exacerbated by Ethiopia’s recent maritime deal with the breakaway region of Somaliland.
This agreement, signed by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, has been a point of contention, leading to diplomatic frictions and fears of military escalation in the region.
The Ethiopian government’s stance on maintaining its military engagement in Somalia reflects broader geopolitical strategies aimed at countering security threats like al-Shabaab, while also navigating complex regional alliances and rivalries. The U.S., through Assistant Secretary Phee, acknowledged the importance of continued anti-terrorism efforts, though no concrete decisions on the Ethiopian troop presence were announced during the meeting.
As Somalia prepares for the end of ATMIS operations, the discussion on Ethiopian troop withdrawal or continued presence remains a critical point in regional security dialogues, potentially influencing the stability and political dynamics in the Horn of Africa.
HORN LIFE
