Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s recent visit to Somalia aimed to strengthen ties and address key issues such as security and counterterrorism. Despite a safe arrival, mortar attacks nearby raised concerns about regional stability. The meeting follows a complex backdrop of Ethiopian-Somali relations, including a controversial agreement with Somaliland and restored diplomatic ties, yet ongoing uncertainties persist.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited Somalia to engage in critical discussions with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud aimed at reaffirming fragile reconciliation between their nations. During this visit, the leaders addressed essential topics pertaining to security measures, political relations, economic cooperation, and regional counterterrorism efforts, as outlined by the Somali government.
Following his arrival, security officials confirmed that Prime Minister Abiy’s delegation exited the airport safely. However, shortly after departing for the presidential palace, residents reported mortar attacks in the vicinity of the airport, raising concerns about the instability in Somalia. Local resident Abdiraham Hassan noted, “Two rounds of mortar shells landed in Bulohubey neighbourhood. An elderly woman was wounded after the shell exploded close to her house.”
The relationship between Ethiopia and Somalia had grown tense after Ethiopia signed a controversial agreement last year with the separatist region of Somaliland. This agreement aimed to secure maritime access but faced opposition from Somalia, which led to the recall of its ambassador from Ethiopia. Despite these challenges, both nations restored full diplomatic ties in January through a peace deal brokered by Turkey.
A source within Somalia’s presidential palace indicated that Abiy’s visit is part of ongoing efforts to finalize and implement the Ankara agreement. While the deal with Somaliland purportedly includes recognition of its independence in exchange for a naval base for Ethiopia, official confirmation from Ethiopia has been lacking. The future of this agreement remains uncertain amid continuing diplomatic complexities between Mogadishu and Addis Ababa.
In summary, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s visit to Somalia underscores the ongoing challenges and fragile nature of their diplomatic relationships, particularly in light of security concerns and previous tensions over Ethiopia’s engagement with Somaliland. The discussions aim to strengthen cooperation on various fronts, but ongoing instability and uncertainties surrounding agreements hinder definitive progress. The future of Ethiopia’s involvement with Somaliland continues to pose diplomatic challenges for both nations.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
