FM H.E. Amb Taye Atske-Selassie met with Rwandan & Ugandan counterparts
In a pivotal diplomatic meeting, Ethiopia's Foreign Minister, H.E. Amb Taye Atske-Selassie, met separately with his Rwandan and Ugandan counterparts to discuss a united stance on the implementation of the Continental Free Agreement (CFA). The discussions, held in an atmosphere of mutual respect and shared goals, emphasized the importance of African nations standing together in matters of economic cooperation, security, and peacekeeping arrangements.
The leaders agreed that the CFA’s full and effective implementation is a cornerstone for regional economic integration and stability. Amb Taye Atske-Selassie highlighted Ethiopia's commitment to advancing the goals of the CFA, seeing it as a crucial step in reducing barriers to trade and investment across Africa, while fostering deeper inter-country collaboration.
The Ethiopian Foreign Minister praised Rwanda and Uganda's leadership within the context of the CFA and acknowledged their roles as key contributors to peace and stability in the region. The meeting also delved into broader African Union (AU) goals, with all parties affirming the need for African solutions to African problems, underscoring the importance of economic independence and sovereignty.
One of the focal points of the discussions was the role of Ethiopia, Uganda, and Rwanda as Troop-Contributing Countries (TCCs) under the African Union Mission in Somalia (ATMIS). Given the imminent end of ATMIS, both Ethiopia and Uganda voiced the necessity for a *comprehensive consideration* before any post-ATMIS arrangements are decided. The three nations highlighted that the post-ATMIS framework should ensure that Somalia remains stable and that the region's hard-fought gains in security are not undermined.
Amb Taye Atske-Selassie reiterated Ethiopia’s long-standing position that peace in Somalia is not only essential for the Horn of Africa but also for the entire continent. Uganda's Foreign Minister echoed these sentiments, stating that "before any post-ATMIS framework is implemented, there must be a comprehensive review that considers the broader regional security dynamics."
The trilateral talks concluded with a shared vision for a cohesive strategy moving forward, ensuring that any future peacekeeping or security arrangements serve the long-term interests of Somalia, its neighbors, and the African continent as a whole.
The diplomatic engagements among these nations exemplify their commitment to working together to achieve peace, security, and prosperity in the region. The successful outcomes of these talks serve as a testament to the power of African unity and diplomacy in addressing shared challenges.