Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited Somalia to meet with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud amid strained relations over a controversial sea access deal with Somaliland. The leaders expressed commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation and announced the start of technical talks in Turkey to resolve disputes. This engagement reflects ongoing diplomatic efforts to stabilize relations while addressing regional security needs.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed arrived in Mogadishu on Thursday for a pivotal meeting with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. This visit aims to improve relations that have been strained due to Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland for sea access, a territory Somalia disputes. Elevated security was present in Mogadishu, including at the Aden Ade International Airport, where Ethiopian flags greeted the prime minister’s arrival with Somali traditional performances.
Following their discussions at the presidential palace, the two leaders announced a joint commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation for shared benefits. They noted that this meeting signifies progress in normalizing their previously strained relations, emphasizing their interdependence and a common vision for regional stability.
Ethiopia and Somalia also welcomed the initiation of technical discussions in Turkey to address issues surrounding the Ethiopian-Somaliland agreement. Although details remain under wraps, the arrangement reportedly involves Ethiopia leasing a section of Somaliland’s coastline in exchange for diplomatic recognition, an arrangement that Somalia contests due to its historical claim over Somaliland.
Despite the lingering tensions, diplomatic efforts have intensified. The Ankara agreement, mediated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, emphasizes mutual respect for sovereignty and outlines pathways for Ethiopia to access a port in Somalia while still addressing Somali territorial integrity. Recent high-profile visits are part of building confidence between the nations.
Moreover, an Ethiopian military delegation recently met with Somali officials in Mogadishu to formalize Ethiopian troop involvement in the African Union’s new mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). This reinforces Ethiopia’s commitment to regional security while stabilizing relations with Somalia.
The visit by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to Somalia marks a significant step towards mending relations strained by territorial disputes and agreements involving Somaliland. Both leaders recognized the importance of cooperation and mutual respect as key to regional stability. Diplomatic talks, especially regarding Ethiopia’s access to the sea, are crucial for moving forward in a politically charged environment.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
