Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited Mogadishu, welcomed by President Hassan Sheikh Mohammed, signaling reconciliation efforts after the “Ankara Declaration.” This agreement emphasizes mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, while Ethiopia withdraws recognition of Somaliland’s secession. Ethiopia also pledges troops to the new African Union mission to combat jihadism, with Turkey mediating the improved relations between both nations.
On February 27, 2025, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed arrived in Mogadishu, where he was greeted by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohammed. This visit marks a significant advancement toward resolving tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia following the signing of the “Ankara Declaration” in December. The agreement, brokered by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, symbolizes a commitment to mutual respect regarding sovereignty and territorial integrity between the nations of the Horn of Africa.
The “Ankara Declaration” entails that Ethiopia will withdraw from a previous memorandum from January 1, 2024, which recognized Somali Somaliland’s secession claims in exchange for naval access along a 20-kilometer coastline. This original memorandum was seen by the Somali government as a violation of its territorial rights. The countries have now agreed to pursue cooperative relations that honor Somalia’s sovereignty while facilitating Ethiopia’s access to maritime routes.
As part of the agreement, Ethiopia has committed to supplying 2,500 troops to the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), which will aid the Somali military against jihadist threats. This contingent will be the second largest in AUSSOM, following Uganda’s 4,500 troops. AUSSOM replaces the previous African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), with efforts to stabilize the region.
Turkey has maintained a military presence in Somalia, which has been pivotal in mediating between Ethiopia and Somalia. Improved relations have evolved from the political alignments of Prime Minister Ahmed’s Prosperity Party and President Erdoğan’s Justice and Development Party. Concurrently, an Ethiopian delegation is participating in the 8th AKP Congress currently held in Turkey.
In conclusion, the recent visit of Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to Somalia signifies a new phase in diplomatic relations underpinned by the “Ankara Declaration.” This agreement aims to enhance cooperation, reaffirm mutual sovereignty, and strengthen military ties through the AUSSOM initiative. The evolving relationships within the region, particularly with Turkey’s involvement, demonstrate a commitment to achieving stability in the Horn of Africa.
Original Source: www.fides.org
