Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited Somalia to engage in talks with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. The discussions centered on enhancing reconciliation between the nations, focusing on key areas such as security and counterterrorism efforts. Despite the successful meeting, mortar attacks were reported near the airport, although it remains unclear if they were related to the visit. The relationship between Ethiopia and Somalia has been strained, especially after Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed arrived in Somalia on Thursday to meet with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. The discussions aim to enhance the fragile reconciliation between Ethiopia and Somalia, with a focus on security, politics, diplomacy, economics, and counterterrorism initiatives, as conveyed in a statement released by the Somali government.
Despite the successful arrival of Prime Minister Abiy’s delegation, local residents reported mortar attacks occurring near the airport shortly after their convoy departed. Security officials confirmed that the delegation left without incident, but reports indicated that mortar shells fell in the Bulohubey neighborhood, leading to civilian injury.
The attacks remain unverified in relation to the Prime Minister’s visit. Somalia’s political landscape continues to be precarious, with the militant group Al-Shabaab maintaining significant territorial control and influence across the nation. Local resident Abdiraham Hassan indicated that an elderly woman sustained injuries due to a shell explosion.
The relationship between Ethiopia and Somalia has been tense, particularly following Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland, which sought access to the sea. However, a diplomatic thaw occurred in January when both nations announced the resumption of full diplomatic relations following a peace deal facilitated by Turkey.
A source from the Somali presidential palace noted that the visit was part of efforts to further the implementation of the Ankara agreement. While Somaliland envisioned recognition of its independence in return for Ethiopia’s naval base, Ethiopia has not officially confirmed this development, contributing to ongoing regional tensions.
In response to the agreement and its implications, Mogadishu criticized the accord and recalled its ambassador from Ethiopia. While diplomacy has improved recently, uncertainty looms over the future of Ethiopia’s commitments to Somaliland.
The visit of Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to Somalia underscores ongoing diplomatic efforts to strengthen relations following a period of tension. With a focus on pivotal areas such as security and economic cooperation, both nations navigate a complex landscape marked by insurgent threats and geopolitical interests. The future of Ethiopia’s agreements with Somaliland remains uncertain, highlighting challenges in regional diplomacy.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
