Somali President’s Historic Visit to Ethiopia Marks Renewed Bilateral Relations
Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud visited Ethiopia to reinforce bilateral relations following recent disputes resolved by the Ankara Declaration facilitated by Türkiye. The leaders agreed to restore full diplomatic representation and emphasize cooperation in regional forums. This marks a new chapter in Somali-Ethiopian relations, highlighting significant diplomatic efforts to ensure enhanced collaboration.
The Somali President, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, recently undertook his inaugural official visit to Ethiopia following the resolution of longstanding bilateral disputes facilitated by a Türkiye-mediated agreement. During his visit, President Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed engaged in high-level discussions aimed at reinforcing mutual relations and aligning their diplomatic missions’ efforts in addressing regional challenges. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to restore full diplomatic representation, as stated in the joint announcement released on Saturday.
Previously, the relationship between the two nations had strained, particularly after Somalia expelled the Ethiopian ambassador in April 2024 due to a disagreement over the Somaliland port agreement. This diplomatic tension was alleviated with the Ankara Declaration, reached during talks hosted by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The recent statements highlight the two countries’ intentions to expedite technical discussions laid out in the Ankara agreement, which was aimed at promoting cooperation on shared interests.
Somalia and Ethiopia share a complex historical relationship marked by periods of collaboration and tension, particularly concerning territorial and political disputes. The recent tensions escalated in early 2024 when Ethiopia signed an agreement with Somaliland, an autonomous region that Somalia does not recognize. This led to serious diplomatic strains until Türkiye intervened, facilitating negotiations that resulted in the Ankara Declaration. The agreement aims to foster a renewed era of cooperation and enhance diplomatic relations between the two nations, which are significant for stability in the Horn of Africa region.
The visit of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to Ethiopia symbolizes a significant step in mending relations between the two nations, which have experienced diplomatic estrangement due to historical disputes. The leaders’ agreement to restore full diplomatic ties and cooperate on mutual interests demonstrates a commitment to a collaborative future. Through continued dialogue, there is hope for sustained peace and cooperation in the region, reflecting the positive impact of international mediation in conflict resolution.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
