Ethiopia and Somalia have signed a military agreement, praised as a crucial step for regional stability. Following Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s visit to Mogadishu, both countries aim to strengthen security cooperation and foster bilateral relations, overcoming recent diplomatic tensions. The discussions include plans for strategic infrastructure and addressing extremist threats collaboratively.
Ethiopia and Somalia have hailed a military agreement between their armed forces as a pivotal advancement towards regional stability. This understanding was established during Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s recent visit to Mogadishu, where he and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud emphasized the importance of strengthening security cooperation and enhancing bilateral relations, reflecting their long-standing historical ties.
Following a period of strained diplomatic relations over Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland, which Somalia viewed as a breach of its sovereignty, both nations are now looking to normalize ties. Earlier, Somalia had dismissed Ethiopian participation in AU-led missions but has since reversed that decision following tensions easing via international mediation by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
Both leaders, having met in January, agreed to enhance diplomatic representation and collaborate on economic and security matters. This renewed engagement has led Somali authorities to approve Ethiopian involvement in the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia, aligning their security efforts through the Somali Federal Government’s coordination.
Recently, both countries acknowledged the threats posed by extremist groups and stressed the necessity of enhanced cooperation in their security initiatives. They also expressed their intent to engage in constructive dialogue while planning strategic projects to foster economic integration and improve social ties between their populations.
The military agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia marks a significant step towards strengthening regional stability and security cooperation. The resolve to build trust through diplomatic, economic, and social engagement reflects both nations’ commitment to overcoming previous tensions and reinforcing their historical bonds. Overall, the collaboration aims to address security challenges while promoting economic development and people-to-people connections.
Original Source: addisstandard.com
