IGAD States says it Supports Somalia’s Sovereignty

GOOBJOOG NEWS | KAMPALA: Leaders from the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), a regional bloc of eight African countries, have expressed their support for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Somalia, following a controversial agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland.

In a joint statement issued during the 42nd IGAD summit, held in Kampala, Uganda, the regional bloc stated that any deal with Somalia to be approved by the Federal Government of Somalia.

The Federal Government of Somalia has strongly rejected a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that Ethiopia signed with Somaliland on January 1st, that seeks to grant it access to the sea and a possible military base on the coast.

Somalia, which considers Somaliland as part of its territory, described the deal as an act of “aggression” and a violation of its sovereignty.

It also recalled its ambassador from Ethiopia and urged the UN Security Council and the African Union to intervene.

The Federal Government of Somalia delegation, led by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, presented its case to the IGAD leaders and diplomats, highlighting the negative impact of Ethiopia’s intervention on the unity and stability of Somalia and the Horn of Africa region.