Somalia alarmed by ‘unfolding situation’ in Ethiopia

November 19, 2020 (Thessherald)–The Somali government has voiced its concern over the ongoing endless fighting between the Ethiopian Federal troops and the TPLF forces in the Tigray region, and called on the warring parties to find common ground to resolve their differences amicably.

“The Federal Republic of Somalia expresses concern over the unfolding situation in Ethiopia. The Federal Government of Somalia reiterates its support for the unity of Ethiopia, and calls for dialogue to amicably end the internal conflict in Ethiopia,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Tuesday.

The Somali government expresses its solidarity with the Ethiopian government, and pledged to help it bring the conflict to an immediate end.

“Somalia, as a neighbor and a friend is willing to offer its full support in the quest to end the current situation in Ethiopia.”

“Somalia echoes calls from the region to immediately and peacefully resolve the conflict in Ethiopia. The Federal Government of Somalia holds that now, more than ever, our region needs to consolidate its collective contributions with the common goal of peace and security to promote opportunities for our people. Somalia reaffirms its solidarity with the Government of Ethiopia under the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in keeping the constitutional order, and respecting the territorial integrity of Ethiopia.”

Somalia, which borders Ethiopia from the west, hosts thousands of Ethiopian troops – currently serving under the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISSOM) as part of regional efforts to maintain peace and security in the Horn of Africa.

Ethiopia, the second most populous country in Africa, has been embroiled in a deadly conflict for weeks pitting the Ethiopian National Defense Forces against the TPLF-led opposition forces in the Tigray region.

Since the outbreak of fighting earlier this month, the Ethiopian government has come under increasing international pressure to enter into a meaningful dialogue with the TPLF leadership. However, the Ethiopian Prime Minister, Abiy, has shunned international calls for peace.