Ethiopian PM Abiy Ahmed has visited Somalia for the first time in months, signaling a restoration of ties following a diplomatic rift over Red Sea access. His discussions with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud are expected to focus on security cooperation and trade partnerships, reaffirming the commitment to regional stability amid existing challenges. The resolution of earlier conflicts was facilitated by negotiations held in Turkey.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has made his inaugural visit to Somalia following the resolution of a diplomatic rift linked to a disputed agreement concerning Ethiopia’s access to the Red Sea, which involved Somaliland. His arrival at Aden Abdulle International Airport was marked by heightened security, especially after a recent mortar attack in the vicinity, underscoring the ongoing instability within the region.
Upon his arrival, Prime Minister Ahmed was received by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, and discussions are expected to center on enhancing trade and diplomatic relations between the two nations. The state media reported that this meeting aims to bolster security cooperation and economic collaboration in light of previous tensions.
The visit also reflects the commitment of both Ethiopia and Somalia to foster regional stability amid Somalia’s involvement in a new alliance with Egypt and Eritrea, Ethiopia’s historical adversaries. This collaboration has been viewed critically in Addis Ababa, especially following a recent agreement among the three countries.
The thawing of relations between Ethiopia and Somalia was facilitated by negotiations held in Turkey, which included the formation of technical committees aimed at assisting in Ethiopia’s access needs while respecting Somalia’s sovereignty. Additionally, prior to this visit, Ethiopia’s Chief of Defence Forces, General Burham Jula, had been in Somalia to secure the deployment of Ethiopian troops as part of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia.
In summary, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s visit to Somalia marks a pivotal moment in the restoration of diplomatic relations following a period of tension over access to the Red Sea. The discussions between leaders aim to enhance security cooperation and trade, affirming both nations’ dedication to regional stability amid broader geopolitical challenges. The resolution of their conflict in Turkey signifies a commitment to addressing mutual concerns with respect for sovereignty.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
