Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited Somalia to resolve tensions over an MoU with Somaliland. He discussed cooperation with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud across key areas such as security and infrastructure. Following the Turkish-mediated Ankara Agreement, both nations aim to rebuild diplomatic relations, although security threats remain, notably from Al-Shabab and deteriorating ties with Eritrea.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed made an official visit to Somalia on Thursday, signaling a resolution to the year-long tensions surrounding Ethiopia’s Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Somaliland. The Prime Minister’s office reported that he engaged in comprehensive discussions with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations, peace and security, economic cooperation, and joint infrastructure development.
Prior to this visit, both leaders convened twice in Addis Ababa following the signing of the Turkish-mediated Ankara Agreement in December 2023, which helped mitigate conflicts between Ethiopia and Somalia. The agreement is believed to have averted a potential military confrontation sparked by the MoU that Ethiopia signed with Somaliland, which Somalia deems a violation of its sovereignty.
Upon his arrival at Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed received a warm welcome from President Mohamud. In a social media post, he expressed gratitude for the reception. However, nearby reports indicate that mortar shells were fired at the airport just before Abiy’s arrival, likely linked to Al-Shabab militant activity, though this remains unconfirmed by government officials.
Security issues were a significant concern during the leaders’ discussions, alongside topics including economic strategies and opportunities for collaborative infrastructure projects. In the joint communique released by Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, both presidents underscored their commitment to enhance cooperation for mutual prosperity and emphasized the importance of existing historical ties.
The communique indicates a shift towards mending relations, although Abiy Ahmed’s administration faces ongoing challenges, notably a potential conflict in northern Ethiopia. Tension has been noted in relations with Eritrea, following a tripartite agreement signed with Somalia. Reports of military mobilization in Eritrea have emerged; however, some local activists have dismissed these as misinformation.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s visit to Somalia marks a pivotal turn in the diplomatic relations between Ethiopia and Somalia, particularly following a year of strained ties over the MoU with Somaliland. The discussions focused on security, economic collaboration, and infrastructure development, showcasing a commitment to fostering peaceful relations. Nevertheless, security challenges persist, especially regarding ongoing tensions with Eritrea, which could complicate the region’s stability.
Original Source: borkena.com
