New York(Mogadishu24)-The Permanent Mission of Ethiopia to the United Nations has voiced its dissatisfaction with remarks made by the Permanent Representative of Somalia during United Nations Security Council briefing this week. The Ethiopian mission criticized Somalia’s statement as “outright false information” and a continuation of baseless accusations.

In a press release issued today, the Ethiopian mission underscored that such allegations by Somali officials are unfounded and that Ethiopia’s foreign policy remains rooted in cooperation, fraternity, and mutual benefit. The Ethiopian mission emphasized that the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) regarding sea access, which Somalia’s statement appeared to critique, follows international practices and aligns with agreements other nations have made for securing sea access through partnership.

Ethiopia stressed its non-aggressive intentions, stating that the MOU should be seen as a win-win partnership without harming any nation’s interests. The release highlighted Ethiopia’s significant contributions to peace and security in Somalia, noting the sacrifices made and the progress against global terrorist groups such as Al-Shabaab.

Addressing concerns about regional security, Ethiopia pointed out the risks of a security vacuum in the wake of the drawdown of the African Union Mission in Somalia (ATMIS). It reaffirmed its commitment to maintain a presence to avoid such vacuums and to continue supporting the AMISOM/ATMIS framework within the federal states of Somalia.

The statement concluded by reaffirming Ethiopia’s readiness to engage in dialogue with Somalia on bilateral platforms, stressing the enduring neighborly ties between the two countries.

Ethiopia’s clear response to the Security Council briefing underscores the ongoing diplomatic efforts to ensure stability and cooperation in the Horn of Africa.