EU supports Somalia's sovereignty despite tensions with Ethiopia
MOGADISHU, Somalia – The European Union (EU) has backed the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Somalia, following an attack by Ethiopia, which is fighting for access to the Red Sea for the construction of a military base and a port.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud held meetings with EU High Representative and Vice-President of the European Commission Josep Borrell, and the two discussed cooperation between the two entities.
The Commissioner expressed his deep gratitude for the support provided by Somalia, which has been struggling for stability for three decades. The EU is a traditional financial partner of this Horn of Africa country.
“His Excellency President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud had a phone call with Josep Borrell, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission,” Villa Somalia reports.
“They reaffirmed the importance of preserving the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Somalia,” the statement read, referring to Ethiopia's aggression, which has sparked concern in the region.
Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has said Somalia is committed to combating terrorism, which is a major concern in the region. The country has been battling Somali militants from Al-Shabaab and ISIS for 16 years.
“The President expressed his gratitude for the EU’s sustained support for Somalia’s security and joint efforts to combat terrorism. Both leaders stressed the importance of the Somalia-EU partnership in promoting regional stability, peace and prosperity.”
Al-Shabaab is fighting to overthrow Somalia's fragile U.N.-backed federal government, but the heavy military presence of international partners has made it nearly impossible for the group to take control of the country.
AXADLETM
