Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s visit to Somalia aims to enhance reconciliation efforts with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, focusing on various critical issues. Despite an unsuccessful attempt to suppress insecurity with mortar attacks reported near the airport, the visit symbolizes a continued diplomacy effort between the two nations amidst past tensions over Somaliland. The future of Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland also remains uncertain as Somalia expresses strong opposition.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed arrived in Somalia on Thursday to meet with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, with the aim of strengthening reconciliation between the two countries. Their discussions, as stated by the Somali government, will encompass topics related to security, politics, diplomacy, economics, and regional counterterrorism initiatives.
While security officials confirmed that Prime Minister Abiy’s delegation arrived safely, residents near the airport reported mortar attacks following their departure towards the presidential palace. The connection between these attacks and the Prime Minister’s visit remains uncertain amid Somalia’s continuing instability, exacerbated by the presence of the Islamist group Al-Shabaab.
Local resident Abdiraham Hassan recounted the impact of the mortar fire, stating, “Two rounds of mortar shells landed in Bulohubey neighbourhood. An elderly woman was wounded after the shell exploded close to her house.” Meanwhile, a member of Ethiopia’s delegation expressed that they were unaware of any such incidents occurring.
Tensions have risen between Ethiopia and Somalia following Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland for sea access. However, diplomatic relations were fully restored in January after a peace agreement facilitated by Turkey. An unnamed source at the Somali presidential palace highlighted that the Prime Minister’s visit is part of a broader commitment to implement the Ankara agreement reached in Turkey.
The agreement with Somaliland, theoretically allowing Ethiopia to recognize its independence in exchange for a naval base, has faced strong opposition from Somalia, which subsequently recalled its ambassador from Ethiopia. Despite recent diplomatic improvements, the future of the agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland remains uncertain.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s visit to Somalia signifies an important step towards reinforcing reconciliation between the two nations, notwithstanding ongoing tensions related to Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland. The impact of recent mortar attacks raises security concerns, illustrating the complexities of the situation in Somalia. Continued efforts to restore diplomacy, particularly through agreements like the one brokered by Turkey, remain pivotal to future stability in the region.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
