The Norwegian government is concerned over the development in Somalia, including the advance of Ethiopian troops into the neighboring country, the Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation (NRK) reported on Thursday.

"Ethiopia has a legitimate need to defend itself. However, to advance far into Somalia with a large number of troops cannot be considered a defensive war. This may have great consequences for the region," said Undersecretary of State Raymond Johansen.

Norway therefore demands a withdrawal of Ethiopian troops, he said.

"We are strongly critical to the Ethiopian invasion, and fear a prolonged war in Somalia with very great humanitarian consequences, " Johansen said.

The African Union has also asked Ethiopia to withdraw its forces as soon as possible, according to NRK.

Source: Xinhua