Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s visit to Mogadishu aims to improve relations with Somalia, strained by Ethiopia’s deal with Somaliland. Both leaders expressed commitment to enhancing cooperation, emphasizing common interests in regional stability. The Turkish-mediated talks and military agreements signify a pathway towards resolving tensions and fostering collaboration between the two nations.
On Thursday, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed arrived in Mogadishu to meet with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. This visit aims to mend relations between the two nations, which have been strained due to Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland, a breakaway region in Somalia’s territory. As a precaution, Somali forces enhanced security measures at Aden Ade International Airport and along the route to the presidential palace.
Upon his arrival, Abiy was welcomed with Ethiopian flags and a cultural display featuring the Somali National Music Band and traditional dancers. The two leaders convened at the Somali presidential palace and issued a joint statement focusing on their commitment to improving cooperation for mutual benefits. They emphasized their nations’ interdependence and shared vision for stability and prosperity in the region.
The leaders acknowledged the initiation of technical talks in Turkey aimed at addressing the tensions regarding the Ethiopian-Somaliland agreement. That contentious deal involves Ethiopia leasing 20 kilometers of Somaliland’s coastline for 50 years, which has been met with Somalia’s staunch opposition due to its claims over Somaliland.
While the details of the agreement remain undisclosed, it has been speculated that Ethiopia intends to establish a naval base. Despite the ongoing tensions, an agreement mediated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in December allowed both countries to reaffirm respect for each other’s sovereignty. The Ankara agreement also opens discussions regarding Somalia’s provision of port access to Ethiopia.
Despite progress, Ethiopia has not officially withdrawn from the Somaliland deal. Notably, President Mohamud visited Addis Ababa in January for a surprise meeting with Prime Minister Abiy, indicating a desire for confidence-building measures. According to analyst Abdiqafar Abdi Wardhere, fostering trust is crucial as both countries navigate potential agreements balancing Somalia’s territorial integrity with addressing Ethiopia’s maritime needs.
Simultaneously, an Ethiopian delegation, led by military Chief Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, recently convened with Somali officials to sign an agreement facilitating the participation of Ethiopian troops in the new African Union mission in Somalia, referred to as AUSSOM.
The recent visit of Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to Somalia marks a significant step in improving relations between the two nations, which have faced challenges due to Ethiopia’s deal with Somaliland. The commitment to enhance cooperation reflects a mutual desire for stability and prosperity. Ongoing technical negotiations and military agreements further highlight the efforts being made to strengthen ties and regional security.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
