Ethiopia’s Army Chief, Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, visited Somalia to discuss strengthening bilateral ties and Ethiopia’s role in the African Union mission. The discussions focused on terrorism, security, and regional stability, emphasizing ongoing collaboration following recent high-level talks between the two nations.
Ethiopia’s army chief, Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, led a notable delegation to Somalia on Sunday, focusing on the enhancement of bilateral relations and the country’s participation in the African Union mission. This visit followed a recent meeting between the leaders of both nations in Addis Ababa, emphasizing ongoing collaboration.
Accompanying Field Marshal Birhanu was Redwan Hussien, Director General of the National Intelligence and Security Service of Ethiopia. Their unannounced visit included discussions with Somalia’s military chief, General Odawa Yusuf Rage, and the director of the National Intelligence and Security Agency, Abdullahi Mohammed Ali, centering on Ethiopia’s support in combating terrorism and fostering peace in Somalia.
Ethiopia has played a pivotal role in the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), initiated in 2007 to provide security in this conflict-prone region. This mission has evolved into the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), with Ethiopian troops remaining integral to its success.
The optimism expressed by both nations indicates a desire to solidify ties, with Somalian officials commending Ethiopia’s dedication to regional stability. This visit followed constructive talks between Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohammed, which further underscores a commitment to cooperation.
Ethiopia’s foreign policy promotes peaceful relations with its neighbors, acting as a key element in its engagement with Somalia. The recent Ankara Agreement serves as a framework for advancing peace and development initiatives in the region, demonstrating Ethiopia’s strategic vision.
Somalian security officials noted the significance of international peacekeeping missions like ATMIS in ensuring the country’s future stability. Both Ethiopia and Somalia reaffirmed their shared dedication to combating extremism and enhancing security in the Horn of Africa.
In conclusion, Field Marshal Birhanu Jula’s visit to Somalia signifies Ethiopia’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and supporting regional stability through the African Union mission. The ongoing collaboration between both countries, marked by constructive dialogues and shared goals, highlights their collective aspiration to combat terrorism and promote peace in the Horn of Africa despite the recent complications regarding troop deployments.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
