Mogadishu, Somalia – On Sunday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Somalia summoned Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Somalia, Suleiman Dedefo, following remarks attributed to him concerning Egypt’s troop contribution to the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).
According to officials at the ministry, the meeting was described as “part of normal diplomatic engagement,” though no details were provided on the specific issues raised. The discussions reportedly centered on recent comments by the Ethiopian envoy regarding Cairo’s involvement in the AU-led mission, which is set to play a critical role in Somalia’s ongoing security transition.
The Ethiopian Embassy in Mogadishu has not released a formal statement addressing the matter. Diplomats in the capital suggest that the exchange reflects broader sensitivities in the Horn of Africa, where regional rivalries and alliances often influence security cooperation.
Egypt, a longstanding supporter of Somalia’s sovereignty, has pledged to contribute forces to AUSSOM as the mission gradually takes over responsibilities from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS). Ethiopia, also a major troop-contributing country, has expressed concerns about the strategic balance in the region, particularly given its strained relations with Cairo over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and maritime access.
Somali analysts note that while Sunday’s diplomatic summons underscores Mogadishu’s intent to address tensions swiftly, it also highlights the delicate balancing act Somalia must navigate as it works with multiple regional partners to ensure stability and security.