Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Visits Somalia to Strengthen Ties
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited Somalia to discuss mending diplomatic relations, strained by Ethiopia’s maritime agreement with Somaliland. The leaders emphasized mutual cooperation and initiated technical talks to resolve tensions. Increased security measures were implemented during the visit, reflecting their commitment to enhancing bilateral ties. An agreement regarding Ethiopian troop participation in the new AUSSOM mission was also signed.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed held discussions with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in Mogadishu on Thursday. This meeting aims to repair the strained relations between their countries, primarily influenced by Ethiopia’s recent agreement with Somaliland, a self-declared republic that Somalia claims as its own territory. Increased security measures were implemented in Mogadishu to ensure the safety of the Ethiopian delegation during this high-profile visit.
Upon arrival, Ethiopian flags adorned the Aden Ade International Airport, where the Somali National Music Band and folklore dancers warmly welcomed Prime Minister Abiy. Following their discussions at the presidential palace, both leaders published a joint statement reaffirming their dedication to strengthening cooperative endeavors for mutual benefit. This visit follows a series of recent engagements aimed at normalizing bilateral relations.
The joint statement emphasized, “Ethiopia and Somalia are interdependent nations with a common destiny and a shared vision for regional stability and prosperity.” Additionally, the two nations welcomed the initiation of technical talks in Turkey focused on resolving the tensions surrounding the Ethiopian-Somaliland agreement. This arrangement involves Ethiopia leasing a section of Somaliland’s coastline for an extended period, contingent on international recognition of Somaliland.
Despite Somaliland’s autonomy since 1991, it remains unrecognized by other countries, due to Somalia’s steadfast opposition. Although the specifics of the deal are undisclosed, the Somali government has indicated that Ethiopia intends to establish a naval base. Moreover, a previous agreement brokered by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in December affirmed mutual respect for each nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The Ankara arrangement allows for Somalia to grant Ethiopia access to its commercial port, with ongoing discussions surrounding the details of this agreement. However, Ethiopia has not formally disassociated itself from the Somaliland deal. Earlier in January, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud unexpectedly visited Addis Ababa for discussions with Prime Minister Abiy, enhancing diplomatic connections.
Experts suggest that such significant visits aim to foster confidence ahead of President Erdogan’s upcoming visit to Somalia and Ethiopia. Analyst Abdiqafar Abdi Wardhere remarked that it is crucial for both leaders to build trust and support the technical negotiations required to establish an agreement respecting Somalia’s territorial integrity while concurrently granting Ethiopia maritime access. Meanwhile, an Ethiopian delegation, led by military chief Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, recently reached an agreement with Somali officials, endorsing Ethiopian troops’ participation in the new African Union mission, AUSSOM.
The visit between Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud marks a significant step towards mending diplomatic relations that have been tested by Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland. Through cooperation, the leaders aim to stabilize and enhance bilateral ties while addressing territorial concerns. Continued discussions and diplomatic engagements signal a mutual interest in fostering lasting peace and stability in the region.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
