ADDIS ABABA (SD) -The statement issued at the 37th Summit of the African Union Heads of State discussed the ongoing maritime dispute between Ethiopia and Somalia.

The African Union, in its recent two-day summit held at its headquarters in Addis Ababa, released a statement addressing various issues affecting member states.

The statement issued at the 37th Summit of the African Union Heads of State covered several points, including the maritime dispute between SOMALIA AND Ethiopia.

The leadership of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia was commended, along with the successes achieved by the Somali government in its fight against Al-Shabaab, as well as the African Union Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) and its supportive partners in security and stabilization efforts.

The statement released by the African Union emphasized the Ethiopian encroachment on the territory of the Federal Republic of Somalia, following a controversial agreement signed between Ethiopia and Somalia’s Northern administration of Somaliland on January 1, 2024.

The AU reaffirmed its commitment to unity, territorial integrity, and sovereignty of all member states, including Somalia. The African Union urged both countries to resolve their differences through meaningful dialogue to achieve a peaceful resolution.

Furthermore, the African Union called on member states and the international community to increase support for the Somali National Army (SNA), particularly in strengthening its security forces, combating Al-Shabaab, and promoting social integration and stability in the newly liberated areas.

The AU commended the UN, EU, UK, US, and other partners for their continued financial and logistical support for ATMIS.