Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s visit to Mogadishu signifies improved relations between Ethiopia and Somalia following the Ankara Declaration. This agreement, mediated by Turkey, stresses mutual respect and military collaboration, including Ethiopia’s commitment of 2,500 troops to the African Union mission in Somalia, reflecting a deeper cooperation aimed at stabilizing the region.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited Mogadishu on February 27, marking a significant move towards reconciliation between Ethiopia and Somalia. He was warmly welcomed by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohammed at the airport. This visit follows the Ankara Declaration, which was signed in December under the mediation of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, enhancing diplomatic relations within the Horn of Africa.
The Ankara Declaration emphasizes mutual respect for sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity between both nations. It replaces a contentious memorandum from January 1, 2024, in which Ethiopia would have acknowledged the independence of Somaliland for access to a coastal area, a deal criticized by the Somali government as an infringement on its territorial rights.
The Turkish government facilitated the agreement after negotiations, wherein Somalia pledged to ensure Ethiopia’s secure access to the sea, reinforcing its sovereignty. Additionally, Ethiopia has committed to deploying 2,500 troops to the newly established African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), assisting the Somali military against jihadist threats.
Turkey has maintained a military presence in Somalia, fostering an environment for diplomatic and military cooperation. After initial disputes, the political rapprochement between Ethiopia’s Prosperity Party and Turkey’s Justice and Development Party has strengthened ties, further evidenced by an Ethiopian delegation’s attendance at the 8th AKP Congress in Turkey.
The visit of Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to Mogadishu symbolizes a pivotal moment in the Ethiopia-Somalia relationship, driven by the Ankara Declaration. Committing to mutual respect and collaboration, both nations aim to enhance stability in the region through military contributions and diplomatic efforts. The involvement of Turkey as a mediator exemplifies the international dimension of their discussions, while promises of military support underscore the commitment to security against extremist groups.
Original Source: www.fides.org
