Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited Somalia, concluding year-long tensions arising from Ethiopia’s MoU with Somaliland. His discussions with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud focused on enhancing bilateral relations, addressing security issues, and promoting joint infrastructure projects. The visit follows the Ankara Agreement, which aimed to restore diplomatic ties after a significant dispute over Somaliland’s sovereignty.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed embarked on a visit to Somalia, marking the end of year-long tensions stemming from Ethiopia’s Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Somaliland. This visit followed extensive discussions with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, where they addressed topics such as peace, security, economic collaboration, and potential joint infrastructure projects. The discussions were rooted in their earlier interactions and the Turkish-mediated Ankara Agreement signed in December 2023, which played a crucial role in defusing diplomatic hostilities between Ethiopia and Somalia.
The relationship between the two nations had deteriorated after Somalia expressed that the MoU with Somaliland violated its sovereignty. Following this agreement, which pertains to a region that has sought independence for over three decades, diplomatic ties were severed. Abiy Ahmed received a warm welcome from President Mohamud upon his arrival at Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu, emphasizing the shared history and border connection between the two nations.
As Abiy Ahmed’s visit occurred, reports emerged of mortar attacks near the airport, presumably linked to Al-Shabab militants. Such security challenges were reportedly part of the discussions held by the two leaders, as they sought to reinforce cooperation amidst existing regional threats. The Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs later released a joint communique reaffirming their commitment to foster diplomatic and social ties for mutual benefit, signaling a positive shift towards collaboration.
Despite the improving relations between Ethiopia and Somalia, challenges remain, particularly for Abiy Ahmed’s administration that is currently facing military conflicts in the north. The relationship with Eritrea, particularly after their tripartite agreement with Somalia in October 2024, has significantly worsened, with reports of increased military mobilization in Eritrea circulating in various media outlets.
The visit of Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to Somalia signifies a notable turning point in diplomatic relations, following a year of heightened tensions over the MoU with Somaliland. Discussions held with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud emphasized security, economic collaboration, and infrastructure development. Although there are lingering security concerns, both nations appear committed to fostering a cooperative relationship moving forward.
Original Source: borkena.com
