Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed met Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to strengthen ties after a diplomatic disagreement regarding Somaliland. Despite mortar attacks reported near the airport coinciding with the visit, the focus remained on regional security, economic collaboration, and executing earlier agreements. Tensions remain due to the unresolved implications of Ethiopia’s deal with Somaliland.
Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited Somalia on Thursday, engaging with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to strengthen reconciliation efforts following a prior diplomatic conflict regarding Somaliland. They focused on several key topics including peace, security, economic collaboration, and infrastructure development initiatives. The Somali government also highlighted discussions on combating regional terrorism.
During the visit, mortar attacks were reported near the airport just after the Ethiopian delegation had passed through, although it was unclear if these incidents were connected to Abiy’s arrival. Fortunately, security officials confirmed that the delegation departed the airport without incident.
Somalia’s security remains precarious, particularly with the presence of the Islamist group Al-Shabab. Local reports indicated that at least two mortar shells struck the Bulohubey neighborhood, causing injuries to a civilian. A member of the Ethiopian delegation stated they were unaware of any such violence.
Tensions escalated between both countries last year when Ethiopia signed a deal with Somaliland to access maritime resources, angering the Somali government, which led to the withdrawal of its ambassador from Ethiopia. However, diplomatic relations have since been restored following a Turkish-mediated agreement.
Both nations described Abiy’s visit as reinforcing diplomatic normalization, with Abiy emphasizing the significance of regional cooperation. His visit is also seen as part of efforts to implement the Ankara agreement signed in December, which aimed at stabilizing relations between Ethiopia and Somalia.
Somaliland announced that their January 2024 agreement with Ethiopia may have granted recognition of its independence in exchange for a naval base, but this was never substantiated. The political aftermath of this agreement has left the status of Ethiopia’s relationship with Somaliland uncertain after the recent diplomatic thaw with Somalia.
Ethiopia and Somalia are reaffirming their diplomatic ties after a period of tension, particularly over Somaliland’s status. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s visit signifies efforts towards peace, security, and economic collaboration. While the security situation remains volatile, both nations are focused on rebuilding relationships and addressing regional challenges, particularly terrorism. The implications of Ethiopia’s past agreement with Somaliland pose ongoing questions for future diplomacy.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
