May 31st 1977
BBC Domestic Television Service (in English) — 1830 GMT
[Interview granted by Somali President Siad Barre to correspondent John Osman in Mogadiscio]
[Osman] Somalia has become known as a gateway to Africa for revolutionary thoughts from the East. Indeed, it was a great Chinese leader who here back in the nineteen sixties pronounced Africa ripe for revolution. Since then Somalia had its own revolution and has strengthened its links with communist powers, especially with the Soviet Union. However, recent Russian arms deliveries to Ethiopia and apparent Russian support for the military government there had led to speculation that alliances might shift, even perhaps that Somalia may switch to the Western camp. I asked President Siad Barre about this speculation:
[Begin recording]
[Barre] All I can say: This is rather the speculation evolved by Western mass media, but certainly no. As you know we have good relations with the Soviet Union, and up to now nothing has changed, has taken place or [is] in view.
[Osman] How have events in Ethiopia and the approaching independence of Djibouti been affecting Somalia and Somali policies?
[Barre] We said already our point of view on Djibouti and an eventual attempt from Ethiopia to invade it. Certainly we always sustain and believe firmly to oppose any kind of war or misunderstanding between states or continents. But certainly in case of attempt of aggression on Djibouti, we will not be indifferent.
[Osman] Now you say, Mr. President that Somalia could not be indifferent to circumstances in Djibouti. May I ask you: Would you consider war between your country and Ethiopia? I interpret your answer as meaning a possibility or a probability?
[Barre] Certainly I say no, because I do not think that the Ethiopians are so stupid to take such a wrong step.
[Osman] So you do think there is a chance?
[Barre] I think they are only making propaganda. As far as they are only to make propaganda, therefore no war. (sentence as heard) Somalia has always tried to solve this problem in a more friendly way, more using wisdom rather than emotion, but unfortunately Ethiopians are always negative in coming on reason. (as heard) Well, we will continue to try peace again, although we have no good hope. War on our side will not be undertaken. If the Ethiopians invade, we may be forced to reply. It is our right to defend ourselves. We explained very clearly in our charter and in our attitude that we have no kind of (word indistinct) to any country or to any given nation. We were ready to tie our friendship with any country which believes in the usefulness of better relations with Somalia.
[Osman] Is there anything specific you would like from Britain?
[Barre] As you know, without any conditions, a number of British companies are working in Somalia. And we are regularly paying and we are respecting and without making any discrimination. This certainly was not a (words indistinct) was aimed to tell British: Look we have nothing against the British. So as far as we are determined to develop our country, if you participate, you are welcome.
[End recording]
FBIS-SSA-77-105, 1 June 1977, pp. B1-B2
The Somali History Archive 