African Union Calls for Mutual Respect Between Ethiopia and Somalia

By Samuel Ouma

The African Union Commission Chairperson, Moussa Faki Mahamat, has called for calm and mutual respect to de-escalate tensions between the governments of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and the Federal Republic of Somalia.

In a statement, Faki implored the two nations to refrain from any action that unintentionally may lead to a deterioration of their good relations.

He emphasized the importance of all African Union member states, including the Federal Republic of Somalia and the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, respecting unity, territorial integrity, and full sovereignty.

“The Chairperson of the Commission of the African Union, H.E Moussa Faki Mahamat, has been closely following the tension resulting from signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between Ethiopia and the region of  Somalia (Somaliland),” read the statement in part.

Furthermore, the AU Chairperson pointed out the importance of upholding good neighbourly norms to promote and consolidate peace, security, and stability in the Horn of Africa region.

He urged the two countries to dialogue as soon as possible to settle their differences in the most constructive, peaceful, and collaborative way to consolidate and deepen their cooperation to serve peace and security in the region.

At the same time, Faki reaffirmed that the African Union will be on their side to encourage an African solution to this new tension in Africa.