Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited Somalia for the first time in months, indicating improved relations following a rift over Red Sea access. He met with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to discuss trade and security cooperation amidst tight security, highlighting both nations’ commitment to regional stability. Previous conflicts were resolved in Turkey, with new alliances impacting the dynamics further.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed arrived in Somalia for his first visit in months, marking a significant reduction in tensions between Mogadishu and Addis Ababa. This thawing of relations follows a controversial agreement concerning access to the Red Sea, previously signed between Ethiopia and Somaliland. Amid tight security, the Prime Minister landed at the Aden Abdulle International Airport shortly after mortar shelling highlighted Somalia’s volatile security situation.
During his visit, PM Abiy Ahmed was welcomed by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. Discussions are anticipated to revolve around enhancing trade partnerships and strengthening diplomatic ties. The state media highlighted that their meeting will focus on collaboration aimed at improving security and fostering economic development between the two nations.
The visit emphasizes the commitment of Ethiopia and Somalia to regional stability and economic cooperation. Furthermore, Somalia has recently aligned itself with a new trilateral alliance consisting of Egypt, Eritrea, and Ethiopia’s historical adversaries. The dynamics of this alliance were acknowledged in the context of the flourishing relations between Somalia and Ethiopia.
The resolution of prior conflicts between Ethiopia and Somalia took place in Turkey, wherein both sides agreed to formulate technical committees dedicated to long-term solutions addressing Ethiopia’s access to tea, without infringing on Somalia’s sovereignty. Prior to this significant visit, Ethiopia’s Chief of the Defence Forces, General Burham Jula, traveled to Somalia to garner support for Ethiopian forces’ involvement in the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).
This visit signifies a pivotal moment in the warming relations between Ethiopia and Somalia, illustrating both nations’ dedication to enhancing security and economic cooperation after a prolonged period of tension. The discussions led by PM Abiy Ahmed and President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud could potentially pave the way for further collaboration in various sectors, reinforcing regional stability. As they work towards a mutual accord, continued efforts will be necessary to maintain peace in the Horn of Africa.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
