Sunday October 6, 2024
Mogadishu (HOL) – The Acting Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General, James Swan, has expressed concern over ongoing tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia following a controversial Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Ethiopia and the breakaway region of Somaliland on January 1, 2024.
The MoU granted Ethiopia sea access and allowed for a military base in Somaliland, which Somalia strongly rejected.
Addressing the United Nations Security Council on Friday, Swan reaffirmed the Council's commitment to Somalia's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and unity, urging both countries to resolve the matter through diplomatic channels in line with international law.
"I commend partners' mediation efforts, including talks hosted by Türkiye in Ankara on July 1 and August 12," the UN envoy to Somalia said. "I urge Ethiopia and Somalia to engage in good faith in these diplomatic efforts and avoid actions that could lead to escalation. This is essential given the possible negative ramifications for stability in the region, including the potential impact on the post-ATMIS transition."
Swan also addressed the humanitarian situation in Somalia, noting that while the number of people in need of assistance has decreased from 8.3 million last year to 6.9 million in 2024, the country remains in dire humanitarian need. He called for additional support to the 2024 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan, which requires $1.6 billion but is only 37% funded.
During a recent visit to Hargeisa, Swan also urged the de-escalation of tensions in the Sool and Sanaag, emphasizing the importance of maintaining humanitarian access in these areas, in accordance with a UN Security Council press statement issued on June 7, 2023.