Ethiopian PM Abiy Ahmed visited Somalia to discuss strengthening reconciliation efforts with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, focusing on security, political ties, and counterterrorism. Despite the visit, mortar attacks were reported in nearby areas, reflecting ongoing instability. The backdrop includes recent tensions due to Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland, complicating bilateral relations.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s recent visit to Somalia marked an important step towards enhancing cooperation between the two countries, particularly in terms of reconciliation efforts. His discussions with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud prioritized critical topics such as security, political relations, regional diplomacy, economic collaboration, and counterterrorism initiatives.
Upon arrival, security officials confirmed that Abiy’s delegation left the airport without any incidents. However, reports of mortar attacks in areas close to the airport emerged shortly after their convoy left, raising concerns about the safety and stability in the region, where the militant group Al-Shabaab is active.
Local resident Abdiraham Hassan recounted that mortar shells landed in the Bulohubey neighborhood, resulting in injuries to civilians, including an elderly woman. Meanwhile, a member of Abiy’s delegation expressed a lack of awareness regarding the attacks, highlighting the unpredictability of security developments in Somalia.
Tensions had previously escalated between Ethiopia and Somalia when Ethiopia secured an agreement with the self-declared region of Somaliland for maritime access. However, following a peace agreement brokered by Turkey, both nations restored diplomatic ties in January. This visit aims to further implement the Ankara agreement, enhancing ties between Ethiopia and Somalia.
Somaliland has suggested that its Deal with Ethiopia might lead to formal recognition of its independence by Addis Ababa in exchange for a naval base, although Ethiopia has not confirmed this arrangement. The development has led to protests from Mogadishu, which vehemently opposes the agreement and acted by recalling its ambassador from Ethiopia.
In summary, PM Abiy Ahmed’s visit to Somalia seeks to fortify reconciliation efforts between the two nations amidst ongoing security concerns. The backdrop of previous tensions over Somaliland complicates their relationship, although recent diplomatic moves aim to stabilize and strengthen ties. However, uncertainties regarding the Somaliland agreement linger, impacting the future of Ethiopia-Somalia relations.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
