AU Peace and Security Council urges de-escalation in Ethiopia-Somalia tensions

In a bid to address the escalating tensions between the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and the Federal Republic of Somalia, the African Union Peace and Security Council convened its 1192nd meeting on January 17, 2024. The Council expressed deep concern over the situation, particularly following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Ethiopia and the northern region of Somalia (Somaliland) on January 1, 2024.

During the meeting, the Council acknowledged briefings from H.E. Ambassador Abdullalie Warfa of Somalia and H.E. Ambassador Ayele Lire of Ethiopia. The tensions arising from the MoU and its potential impact on the peace, security, and stability of the region were discussed extensively.

The Council welcomed the statement issued by H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the AU Commission, on January 3, 2024, emphasizing the importance of respecting the unity, territorial integrity, and sovereignty of all AU Member States. The Council, in line with AU Constitutive Act and the Protocol Relating to the Establishment of the Peace and Security Council of the African Union, reaffirmed its strong commitment to preserving the unity, territorial integrity, independence, and sovereignty of all Member States.

Calling on Ethiopia and Somalia to adhere to the core principles of the AU and international law in their relations, the Council urged external actors to refrain from interfering in the internal affairs of the two AU Member States. Emphasizing the need for restraint, de-escalation, and meaningful dialogue, the Council encouraged both countries to find a peaceful resolution to the matter in the spirit of African solutions to African problems.

In a significant move, the Council requested the Chairperson of the AU Commission to deploy the AU High Representative for the Horn of Africa, H.E. Olusegun Obasanjo, to facilitate dialogue between Ethiopia and Somalia. The former President of Nigeria will play a crucial role in fostering communication and providing regular updates to the Council.

The Council welcomed the upcoming Extraordinary Summit of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) in Kampala, Uganda, scheduled for January 18, 2024, and expressed anticipation for its outcome.