Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s visit to Somalia ends a year of tensions regarding the MoU with Somaliland. The leaders discussed peace, security, and cooperation. A mortar attack occurred at the airport before Abiy’s arrival, likely linked to Al-Shabab. Both countries are looking to mend relations after recent agreements, despite ongoing regional challenges.
On Thursday, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited Somalia, signaling the conclusion of prolonged tensions surrounding Ethiopia’s Memorandum of Understanding with Somaliland. The Prime Minister’s office confirmed that Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud engaged in comprehensive discussions aimed at enhancing bilateral relations, focusing on peace, economic collaboration, diplomatic efforts, and possibilities for joint infrastructural projects.
Prior to this visit, the leaders had met twice in Addis Ababa following the Turkish-mediated Ankara Agreement signed in December 2023, which helped diffuse a potentially severe military conflict stemming from the MoU signed between Ethiopia and Somaliland on January 1, 2024. Somalia asserted that this agreement infringed upon its sovereignty by recognizing Somaliland’s long-standing claim of independence.
Upon arrival at Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu, Abiy Ahmed received a warm welcome from President Mohamud. Abiy expressed his gratitude through social media, stating, “I appreciate the warm and brotherly welcome from President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud…”. However, moments before his arrival, reports emerged of a mortar attack targeting the airport, which is suspected to be linked to Al-Shabab militants, though confirmation of this information is pending.
During their meeting, the leaders addressed various security challenges facing Somalia and the broader region, in addition to discussions on economy and the potential for joint development initiatives. A joint communique released by Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized the leaders’ commitment to enhance cooperation for mutual benefit, while acknowledging the deep-rooted historical ties between their nations.
The statement reflects their intention to move beyond prior hostilities and pursue collaborative relations. However, Abiy’s administration may find itself engaged in conflict in the northern regions of Ethiopia, particularly as relations with Eritrea—whose leadership is reportedly mobilizing intensively—deteriorate, as highlighted by BBC Amharic reports that some Eritrean activists have dismissed as misinformation.
In summary, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s visit to Somalia marks a significant step in restoring diplomatic relations following a period of tension over Ethiopia’s MoU with Somaliland. Discussions between the leaders focused on mutual cooperation in peace, economic development, and security. Despite ongoing challenges, including tensions with Eritrea, both countries are committed to enhancing their partnership and fostering lasting diplomatic ties.
Original Source: borkena.com
