Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited Somalia to enhance relations strained by Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland, which Somalia contests. With heightened security in Mogadishu, the leaders reaffirmed cooperation and initiated talks in Turkey to resolve disputes. Notably, the two nations seek mutual benefits while addressing territorial integrity.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu, to improve bilateral relations with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. This meeting follows tensions due to Ethiopia’s agreement for sea access through Somaliland, a region that Somalia claims as its own. Enhanced security measures were implemented throughout Mogadishu, including the closure of main roads and heightened military presence.
Upon his arrival, Abiy Ahmed was received ceremoniously at the airport, with Ethiopian flags on display and Somali cultural performances welcoming him. Both leaders convened at the presidential palace and committed to fostering cooperation for mutual benefits, emphasizing their intertwined destinies for regional stability and prosperity.\n
They acknowledged the commencement of technical discussions in Turkey intended to address the disputes resulting from the Ethiopian-Somaliland agreement. This contentious deal allows Ethiopia access to a 20-kilometer seafront in Somaliland for a period of 50 years, a proposal met with resistance from Somalia.
Despite Somaliland’s autonomous governance since 1991, international recognition remains elusive, primarily due to Somali opposition. The contents of the sea access agreement have not been disclosed, although it has been rumored that Ethiopia plans to establish a naval base.
Diplomatic efforts, such as an agreement mediated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan last December, highlighted mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. This agreement includes provisions for Somalia to grant Ethiopia access to a commercial port, although specifics are still under discussion.
Prior engagements, including an unexpected visit by President Mohamud to Addis Ababa, reflect a commitment to confidence-building between the two nations. Analysts suggest that these diplomatic gestures aim to facilitate upcoming discussions regarding the Ankara Agreement while ensuring the preservation of Somalia’s territorial integrity.
Additionally, an Ethiopian military delegation recently convened with Somali officials to formalize the participation of Ethiopian troops in the new African Union mission in Somalia, designated as AUSSOM. This collaboration further solidifies the ongoing mutual support between the two nations.
The visit by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to Somalia signifies a crucial step towards repairing strained bilateral relations, particularly against the backdrop of territorial disagreements regarding Somaliland. Through diplomatic dialogues and cooperation in security arrangements, both nations aim to reinforce their partnership while addressing significant regional challenges. The outcome of forthcoming negotiations will be pivotal for ensuring that both countries can coexist peacefully and collaboratively.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
