Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited Somalia to enhance reconciliation following tensions over Somaliland ties. While discussing peace, security, and economic cooperation, mortar attacks occurred near the airport post-visit. Both countries confirmed diplomatic ties were restored after mediation by Turkiye. The future of their agreement with Somaliland is still under consideration amidst ongoing security challenges.
Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited Somalia on Thursday to strengthen reconciliation efforts following tensions over ties to the separatist region of Somaliland. During the meeting with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, they addressed issues concerning peace, security, economic collaboration, diplomacy, and infrastructure development. Additionally, the Somali government highlighted that they would discuss regional counter-terrorism efforts.
Shortly after Ahmed’s arrival, mortar attacks were reported near Mogadishu airport, though it remains uncertain if these incidents were related to his visit. Despite the unrest, security officials confirmed that the Ethiopian delegation departed the airport without any incidents. The presence of Al-Shabab, an Islamist group, continues to make Somalia’s security situation precarious.
Tensions escalated last year when Ethiopia formed a deal with Somaliland to access the sea, leading to diplomatic strain. However, both nations restored full diplomatic ties following a mediation process by Turkiye in January. In a joint statement on Thursday, both countries affirmed that the visit reinforced the normalization of their relations.
Abiy Ahmed expressed the importance of regional collaboration, stating, “Regional thinking and collaboration are essential, and we are ready to work with Somalia to make this a reality.” Discussions were also aimed at further implementing the Ankara agreement established in December.
The fallout from Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland, which could have involved recognition of its independence, stirred significant anger from Mogadishu, resulting in their withdrawal of the ambassador from Ethiopia. The future of this agreement remains uncertain as the two countries work towards a renewed bilateral relationship.
The diplomatic visit by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed signifies efforts to mend relations between Ethiopia and Somalia after previous tensions over Somaliland. Key discussions included peace, security, and collaboration on various fronts. Despite recent mortar attacks, the Ethiopian delegation’s visit aimed at reaffirming commitments to counter-terrorism and infrastructural development while navigating the complexities arising from the deal with Somaliland. The ultimate impact of these negotiations on the broader regional stability remains to be seen.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
