MOGADISHU, Somalia — Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, the Defense Minister of Somalia, has sharply critiqued Ethiopia, advocating that the neighboring country focus its efforts on managing its internal security issues rather than interfering in Somali matters.
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Amid rising tensions between the two nations, Nur brought attention to Ethiopia’s internal unrest, emphasizing that insurgents have reportedly advanced to within 40 kilometers of Addis Ababa.
“Ethiopia ought to concentrate on safeguarding its own capital and populace, instead of casting its gaze towards Somalia,” Nur insisted.
His comments emerge as Ethiopian troops are slated to pull out from Somalia by December 2024 due to strained relations.
Expressing concerns over Ethiopia’s perceived territorial ambitions, Nur stated emphatically, “Somalia will never allow any infringement upon its sovereign territory.” Reflecting Somalia’s growing determination to defend its land, this perspective comes amid Ethiopia’s contentious activities, particularly a pact with North Western State of Somalia for Red Sea access, which Somalia views as a breach of its sovereignty.
The minister’s statement not only cautions Ethiopia but also comments on broader regional undertones, where Ethiopia’s actions are scrutinized against its internal predicaments. The Somalia-Ethiopia relationship is layered with intricacies, ranging from joint military efforts against Al-Shabaab to fresh diplomatic clashes over territorial and regional sway.
Nur’s pronouncement might indicate a bolder diplomatic approach from Somalia, aiming to protect its sovereignty and interests in a turbulent regional setting.
AXADLETM
