Ethiopia reiterates its strong position for peace in Somalia amidst provocative activities by extremists whose agenda has nothing to do with peace and stability. 

As a member state of the Inter Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD), and the African Union (AU), Ethiopia fully supports dialogue by the Transitional Federal Government (TFG) of Somalia with forces recognizing its institutions and the Charter providing for their establishment.  

Having no separate agenda in Somalia, Ethiopia strongly believes peace is in the interest of the Somali people after all the bloodshed, trauma and suffering they have been through for the last fifteen years. 

Peace in the sub-region is an indispensable ingredient for development and democracy to take strong-hold in the impoverished and volatile Horn.  

Notwithstanding the facts on the ground and denying Ethiopia's contribution for sustainable peace in Somalia, hardliners in Mogadishu are trying in vain to cover up their malicious objectives of imposing their will in the name of Islam. 

Leaders of the Union, in statements they gave, have blasted the IGAD for its role in the formation of the TFG, the legitimate Somalian government recognized by the UN as well as the AU. 

In what could be considered a blatant defiance and contempt to the conscience of the international community, the Union has brought to the helm notorious leaders of the extremist group Al-Ithad, registered as such by the UN. 

Actions of the terrorists in the group leaves no doubt as to their intentions to unleashing further turmoil, slamming as ineffectual the long, arduous effort deployed by the Somali elders and clan leaders to set up the TFG. 

Preventing hardliners from setting up in Somalia should be the preoccupation of all forces of peace. 

In such a holistic effort, Ethiopia believes the role of the TFG is irreplaceable while the assistance of the international community remains quite crucial. 

Endorsing the federal institutions - the Transitional Federal Government and its Charter - Ethiopia fully supports the position taken by the international community. 

UIC, as Prime Minister Meles put it is a Union of desperate forces - grouping Jihadists and Al-Ithad al Islamia - the messenger voice of the Eritrean government. 

Al-Ithad has been involved in terrorist outrages that claimed the lives of civilians in some towns including the capital Addis Ababa.  

"So, it is absolutely prudent and appropriate for us to take the right precautionary measures", Meles told journalists at a recent press conference.  

According to a UN Security Council report, in a flagrant breach of the arms embargo on Somalia, Eritrea has been providing arms to the terrorist group. 

Ethiopia, reserving its right to defend itself has beefed up security along the border with Somalia to stave off any attempt by terrorists to destabilize peace and security in the country. 

The international community should as well resolutely stand against terrorists and their mentors if destructive forces are not to gain more ground in this part of Africa.