Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited Somalia for discussions with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud focused on reconciliation. The talks aim to address security, politics, and regional stability. However, mortar attacks were reported during the visit, raising concerns about safety. Despite a recent peace agreement restoring diplomatic relations, tensions remain, particularly involving Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed arrived in Somalia for talks with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, focusing on stabilizing reconciliation between the two nations. Their discussions will cover several critical areas including security, politics, diplomacy, economics, and regional counterterrorism efforts.
Upon arrival, Abiy’s delegation was reported to have departed the airport safely. However, shortly after, local residents reported mortar attacks near the vicinity, raising questions about their connection to the Prime Minister’s visit. Somalia continues to experience instability, largely due to the presence of the Islamist group Al-Shabaab.
Local resident Abdiraham Hassan described an incident where “Two rounds of mortar shells landed in Bulohubey neighbourhood,” resulting in injuries. Meanwhile, a member of Abiy’s delegation stated they were not aware of any attacks occurring during the visit.
Last year saw heightened tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia when Ethiopia entered an agreement with Somaliland for maritime access. Despite this, a peace deal facilitated by Turkey in January restored full diplomatic relations between the two countries.
An anonymous Somali presidential palace source noted that Abiy’s visit is intended to further implement the Ankara agreement, related to their diplomatic discussions. Although Somaliland anticipated recognition in exchange for establishing a naval base for Ethiopia, this claim has not been validated by Ethiopian officials.
Mogadishu opposed the Ethiopia-Somaliland pact and officially recalled its ambassador to register its discontent. Despite the newfound diplomatic relations, uncertainty looms regarding the future implications of Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland.
The visit of Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to Somalia highlights ongoing efforts to mend relations between the two countries following a turbulent period. While discussions will address vital issues such as security and economic cooperation, the presence of violence in the region underscores the challenges that remain. The reconciliation efforts are further complicated by Ethiopia’s dealings with Somaliland, leaving the future of regional dynamics uncertain.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
