Somali and Ethiopian Leaders Reinforce Commitment to Regional Peace and Security
Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud hosted Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in Mogadishu, marking Abiy’s first visit since the Ankara Declaration. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to peace, security, and enhancing bilateral relations for the benefit of both nations and the Horn of Africa. They also welcomed the initiation of technical talks as outlined in the Ankara Declaration.
On Thursday, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud welcomed Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to Mogadishu. This marks Prime Minister Abiy’s inaugural visit to Somalia since the Ankara Declaration in December. During their meeting, both leaders reaffirmed their dedication to peace and security, along with enhancing bilateral relations to benefit both nations and the broader Horn of Africa region.
A subsequent statement from the Somali presidency indicated that after a private discussion, the two leaders convened with their respective delegations to explore avenues for boosting diplomatic, economic, and social collaboration. This visit continues a series of engagements aimed at normalizing relations between Somalia and Ethiopia, which had experienced tensions prior to the December agreement facilitated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
During their discussions, Prime Minister Abiy and President Mohamud expressed support for the initiation of technical talks in Ankara, as referenced in the Ankara Declaration, highlighting their commitment to dialogue and mutual cooperation. The Ankara Declaration, finalized in December, emerged from consultations between the two leaders hosted by President Erdogan in Turkey.
In conclusion, the meeting between President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed underscores a renewed commitment to fostering peace and cooperation between Somalia and Ethiopia. Their discussions not only aim to strengthen bilateral relations but also to support broader stability in the Horn of Africa, emphasizing dialogue and shared goals for mutual benefit.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr