Mortars were fired at the airport in Mogadishu during Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s visit, while Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was on-site. The city remains under strict lockdown for security reasons. A security official confirmed that some projectiles landed near the airport but did not report any casualties. The leaders are set to discuss key bilateral issues, following the Ankara Declaration that eased tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia.
In Mogadishu, Somalia, multiple mortars were launched toward the airport coinciding with the visit of Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. Reports indicate that Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was present at the airport’s VIP section to greet the Prime Minister during the incident. The city is currently under strict lockdown as a precautionary measure for enhanced security.
A security official, who requested anonymity due to media restrictions, confirmed to Anadolu Agency that several mortars landed near the Aden Adde International Airport. However, the official did not provide information regarding any casualties resultant from the attack. This incident occurred as Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed commenced his official visit, welcomed by President Mohamud.
During their meeting, both leaders are expected to discuss various bilateral matters including security cooperation, trade relations, and strategies to strengthen ties between Ethiopia and Somalia. The visit follows the Ankara Declaration, which concluded a prolonged standoff between the two nations, established in December through discussions facilitated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in Ankara.
In summary, the recent mortar attack in Mogadishu during Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s visit underscores the ongoing security challenges in the region. Despite the heightened tensions, the leaders are expected to engage in crucial discussions aimed at improving bilateral relations between Somalia and Ethiopia. This visit represents a significant step towards fostering cooperation and reconciliation between the neighboring countries.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
