WASHINGTON (SD) -The United States has once again reiterated its position regarding the recent agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland, stating that they are aligned with IGAD, international organizations, and other African Union partners in supporting the territorial integrity and inclusive governance of Somalia, which should be free from external interference.

Molly Phee, the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, conveyed the statement.

“The United States shares the view of the African Union, IGAD, and other international organizations, as well as the majority of African partners on the continent, that Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity need to be respected. We share a concern that this proposed memorandum of understanding could be very disruptive to our shared struggle, which includes Ethiopian investment over years against al-Shabaab and its negative impact on the people of Somalia. And we support conversations between the peoples of Somalia and Somaliland about their shared future.” said Molly Phee, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs.

The U.S. government also stated that it supports the ongoing dialogue between the Federal Government of Somalia and the Government of Somaliland in pursuit of Somalia’s future stability.