Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s visit to Somalia seeks to mend relations after previous tensions over Somaliland. The leaders discussed peace, security, and cooperative projects. Security incidents occurred during the visit, yet both nations reaffirmed their commitment to reestablishing diplomatic ties, despite lingering uncertainties regarding past agreements with Somaliland.
On Thursday, Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed arrived in Somalia to meet with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, aiming to solidify diplomatic relations following recent tensions. Their discussions focused on key areas including peace and security, economic collaboration, and the potential for joint infrastructure development. The Somali government emphasized the necessity of tackling terrorism in the region during their talks.
In a concerning development during Abiy’s visit, mortar attacks occurred near Mogadishu airport shortly after his arrival. While residents reported that shells landed in populated areas, it remains uncertain if these incidents were related to the Prime Minister’s presence. Fortunately, security officials confirmed that Abiy’s delegation left the airport without incident, highlighting the precarious security situation in Somalia due to the persistent threat from the Islamist group Al-Shabab.
Last year, tensions escalated between Ethiopia and Somalia when Ethiopia engaged in an agreement with Somaliland, a self-declared breakaway region, which angered Mogadishu. However, both countries restored diplomatic relations in January this year, facilitated by Turkiye. The leaders’ recent meeting reinforced the intent to normalize relations, with Abiy expressing a commitment to regional cooperation.
A source from the Somali presidential palace indicated that the visit aligns with efforts to implement the Ankara agreement signed in Turkish capital last December. Although Somaliland claims that the previous agreements could lead to Ethiopian recognition of its independence in exchange for maritime access, tensions still linger as Mogadishu withdrew its ambassador in response to Ethiopia’s actions.
The future implications of Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland remain uncertain following this diplomatic rapprochement. Abiy’s visit signifies an attempt to mend relations and stabilize the region amidst ongoing conflicts and security challenges.
Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited Somalia to fortify relations after a diplomatic dispute over ties with Somaliland. Despite local mortar attacks, discussions on security and joint projects took precedence. Both countries aim to strengthen diplomatic ties, navigating complex regional dynamics while the fate of previous agreements with Somaliland remains ambiguous. This visit underscores the importance of collaboration for stability in the Horn of Africa.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
