Ethiopia’s Defense Minister Aisha Mohammed visits Mogadishu to restore ties strained by a controversial maritime agreement with Somaliland. The visit focuses on implementing the Ankara Declaration, discussing troop transitions, and enhancing security cooperation amid regional tensions and threats from Al-Shabaab.
Ethiopia’s Minister of Defense, Aisha Mohammed, is leading a diplomatic delegation to Mogadishu, Somalia, on Thursday, which symbolizes a crucial step towards mending ties between the neighboring nations in the Horn of Africa. The two countries have experienced heightened tensions recently following Ethiopia’s controversial maritime agreement with the breakaway Somaliland region, granting Ethiopia access to the Red Sea, a move Somalia regards as a breach of its sovereignty.
During her visit, Minister Mohammed aims to actualize the Ankara Declaration, which is a recent agreement aimed at normalizing relations between Ethiopia and Somalia. Key topics of discussion will include the transition of Ethiopian troops from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) to the new African Union Support to Somalia Mission (AUSSOM). With approximately 3,000 Ethiopian soldiers stationed in Somalia, the presence of these troops has been a point of contention, leading to earlier threats from Somalia to expel them.
The focus of these deliberations will center on enhancing security cooperation and facilitating the broader implementation of the Ankara agreement. This visit represents a critical opportunity for both nations to alleviate regional tensions and cooperate on mutual security challenges, particularly the ongoing threat posed by the militant group Al-Shabaab. Additionally, Egypt has expressed support for Somalia’s stance, pledging to contribute over 5,000 troops to AUSSOM, indicating a collective regional effort for peace and stability in Somalia.
Minister Aisha Mohammed, recognized for her significant contributions toward promoting gender equality in leadership and having held several ministerial positions, provides substantial diplomatic strength to the discussions. Her presence underscores Ethiopia’s commitment to pursuing dialogue despite the recent strain on diplomatic relations resulting from the memorandum of understanding with Somaliland.
The complex relationship between Ethiopia and Somalia has been impacted by geopolitical shifts and regional dynamics, particularly following Ethiopia’s 2024 maritime agreement with the Somaliland region. This deal has provoked strong opposition from Somalia, which views it as a violation of its territorial integrity. Both countries are now seeking to foster renewed understanding and cooperation in military and security matters following a history of discord and conflicting interests within the Horn of Africa region. The Ankara Declaration aims to lay the groundwork for a productive relationship moving forward, allowing both nations to confront common challenges, including the threat posed by extremist groups.
In conclusion, the high-level visit of Ethiopia’s Minister of Defense to Somalia is a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to restore diplomatic relations between the two countries that have faced significant strains. With the goals of fostering security cooperation and mitigating past tensions, this gathering not only seeks to address immediate military concerns but also aims to pave the way for a more stable regional environment. Aisha Mohammed’s leadership during these discussions highlights a commitment to constructive dialogue and cooperative solutions.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
