Ethiopian Prime Minister Visits Mogadishu to Strengthen Ties with Somalia
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Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s visit to Mogadishu signifies a vital step in diplomatic relations between Somalia and Ethiopia, following the Ankara Declaration facilitated by Turkey. This agreement emphasizes mutual sovereignty and independence, while Ethiopia promises to send troops to support Somalia against jihadist movements. Enhanced cooperation between Turkey and both nations is critical for ongoing reconciliation efforts.
On February 27, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed made a significant visit to Mogadishu, where he was welcomed by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohammed. This diplomatic gesture follows the signing of the “Ankara Declaration” in December, a pivotal agreement facilitated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan aimed at fostering reconciliation between Ethiopia and Somalia.
The Ankara Declaration formalizes mutual commitments to respect sovereignty, unity, independence, and territorial integrity between the two nations. Previously, a controversial memorandum from January 1, 2024, which recognized the Somali secessionist region of Somaliland, was abandoned following diplomatic discussions. This memorandum was viewed by the Somali government as a threat to its territorial integrity.
Turkey’s mediation efforts culminated in the December agreement, with Ethiopia agreeing to collaborate with Somalia to ensure that its access to the sea remains under Somali sovereignty. Additionally, Ethiopia has committed to deploying 2,500 troops to the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), thereby strengthening support for the Somali military against jihadist elements.
Turkey’s longstanding military presence and strategic involvement in Somalia has contributed to improving relations between Ethiopia and Turkey. The political alignment between Ahmed’s Prosperity Party and Erdoğan’s Justice and Development Party has facilitated these advancements. Concurrently, a delegation from the Ethiopian political party is actively participating in the 8th AKP Congress in Turkey.
The visit of Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to Mogadishu marks a vital stride towards reconciliation between Somalia and Ethiopia. Following the Ankara Declaration, both nations have reaffirmed their commitment to mutual respect regarding sovereignty and territorial integrity. Furthermore, Ethiopia’s deployment of troops to support stabilization efforts in Somalia, alongside Turkey’s mediatory role, showcases a significant collaborative effort towards peace and security in the region.
Original Source: www.fides.org