Ethiopia and Somalia Strengthen Commitment to Development and Peace
Ethiopia and Somalia reaffirmed their commitment to shared development and peace during a recent high-level meeting in Addis Ababa. The discussions, led by Somalia’s State Minister Ali Omar and Ethiopia’s Ambassador Misganu Arga, focused on translating the Ankara Agreement into concrete actions and enhancing bilateral cooperation in economic and security domains.
On December 24, 2024, in Addis Ababa, Ali Omar, the State Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Somalia, reaffirmed the commitment of both Ethiopia and Somalia to pursue shared development and peace. This statement was made following a significant visit from a Somali delegation aimed at strengthening bilateral ties consequent to the Ankara Agreement. Ambassador Misganu Arga, Ethiopia’s State Minister of Foreign Affairs, reiterated the nation’s dedication to executing the Ankara Declaration fully.
The high-level discussions between Minister Omar and Ambassador Arga marked the first encounter since the signing of the Ankara Agreement, focusing on practical avenues for translating the accord into tangible benefits for both nations. Minister Omar characterized the dialogues as “fruitful,” indicating a forward-looking approach to overcoming historical tensions. Indicating the potential for economic cooperation, Omar remarked on Somalia’s extensive coastal resources and Ethiopia’s significant market potential, outlining Somalia’s eagerness for commercial access.
He emphasized the establishment of a direct working relationship without third-party mediation, reinforcing that mutual stability in both countries would yield significant benefits. Specific strategies for commercial access are to be discussed in future technical meetings planned for February.
Ambassador Misganu echoed these sentiments, expressing Ethiopia’s willingness to sustain dialogue with Somalia. He commented on the importance of fostering prosperity through regional integration and economic cooperation, stating that the discussions had been constructive, with assurances of future meetings to further develop bilateral relations. He also stressed the shared security concerns that necessitate collaboration, particularly against the Al-Shabaab threat, asserting a commitment to combating regional terrorism alongside the Somali government.
The reaffirmation of commitment between Ethiopia and Somalia follows a historic period characterized by both nations striving towards enhanced collaboration and mutual development. Recent agreements, such as the Ankara Agreement, seek to solidify relations post-conflict and establish frameworks for economic interdependence. The interaction between the two nations underscores their recognition of shared challenges, including economic potential and security concerns, driving their commitment to work together towards sustainable growth and stability in the region.
In conclusion, the discussions between Ethiopia and Somalia highlight a promising trajectory towards strengthened bilateral relations, focusing on economic cooperation and security collaboration. Both nations exhibit a strong commitment to surmounting historical challenges and fostering a collaborative environment for mutual benefit. The focus on direct engagement and upcoming meetings reflects their dedication to achieving these shared objectives, ensuring a stable and prosperous future for both countries.
Original Source: www.ena.et
