ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia — In a firm rebuttal to allegations leveled by Somalia, Ethiopian Foreign Minister Taye Atskeselassie, during a Wednesday press conference, characterized the accusations as a calculated move to divert attention from Somalia’s internal political crises.
The Ethiopian diplomat stood his ground on the nation’s controversial maritime agreement with Somaliland, asserting that the deal was crafted with the intent of spurring regional development rather than stoking conflict.
“There is no reason for the government of Somalia to incite hostility that intends to cover internal political intentions,” Atskeselassie emphasized, pointing out that Ethiopia’s actions were not driven by malice but by a vision for growth and cooperation within the region. He called for a shift in focus towards joint efforts aimed at fostering stability, particularly in combating the pervasive threat of terrorism across the Horn of Africa.
The minister’s comments come at a time of heightened diplomatic tension between Ethiopia and Somalia, with Somalia vehemently opposing the maritime access agreement with Somaliland, arguing that it undermines Somalia’s sovereignty.
Atskeselassie’s remarks underscore Ethiopia’s commitment to regional peace and prosperity, urging neighboring countries to prioritize unity and security over discord, thereby aiming to de-escalate the situation and promote a cooperative approach to the region’s challenges.
HORN LIFE
