Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud visited Ethiopia on Saturday, a month after the signing of the Ankara Declaration aimed at resolving disputes between the two nations. The visit follows tensions over Ethiopia’s maritime deal with Somaliland and seeks to strengthen bilateral relations. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed welcomed President Mohamud as both leaders pledged to respect each other’s sovereignty and collaborate on economic matters.
Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud made a significant surprise visit to Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, on Saturday. This visit took place exactly one month after the leaders of both nations signed the “Ankara Declaration,” an agreement aimed at resolving ongoing tensions stemming from a yearlong dispute. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed welcomed President Mohamud at the airport, highlighting the importance of this diplomatic engagement in solidifying bilateral relations between the two nations.
The impetus for the recent tension arose from a controversial maritime agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland, a breakaway region of Somalia. Ethiopia’s memorandum of understanding with Somaliland, signed on January 1, 2024, granted the region the right to lease 20 kilometers of coastline for 50 years, which was met with vehement rejection from Somalia, asserting it violated their sovereignty. However, the Ankara Declaration established a framework for the two countries to reaffirm their commitment to mutual respect for sovereignty and work collaboratively on economic arrangements that would ensure sustainable maritime access for Ethiopia under Somalia’s oversight.
The visit was marked by visible displays of goodwill in Addis Ababa, where electronic boards showcased images of the Somali president alongside celebratory messages. Additionally, the road from Bole Airport, where President Mohamud arrived, was secured by Ethiopian Federal Police, signifying the importance of his visit. This trip is notable, especially considering it is President Mohamud’s first since February 2024, when he alleged that Ethiopian security forces impeded his entry to the African Union headquarters.
Prior to arriving in Ethiopia, President Mohamud participated in an agricultural summit in Uganda, where he engaged in discussions with regional leaders, including Presidents Yoweri Museveni of Uganda and William Ruto of Kenya. These engagements are seen as part of a wider diplomatic mission that includes visits to Eritrea and Djibouti, aimed at promoting regional cooperation. President Ruto emphasized the strengthening ties between Somalia and Kenya since Somalia’s integration into the East African Community last year, noting an increase in trade activity between the nations.
The relationship between Somalia and Ethiopia has been historically strained due to territorial disputes and differing political interests. The recent tensions were exacerbated by Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland, a self-declared independent region within Somalia, which has raised questions about Somalia’s territorial sovereignty. The Ankara Declaration, brokered by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, serves as a crucial step toward mitigating these disputes by establishing a framework for cooperation and respect for each nation’s sovereignty. The visit of President Mohamud underscores the commitment of both leaders to enhance diplomatic relations and foster economic collaboration after a challenging period.
In conclusion, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s unexpected visit to Ethiopia is a pivotal step in rekindling diplomatic relations following a prolonged period of tension. The establishment of the Ankara Declaration marks progress toward cooperative engagement, essential for promoting stability and economic connectivity in the region. This visit not only symbolizes goodwill but also reflects a broader commitment among East African nations to overcome past disputes and work collectively for their mutual benefit.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
