Ethiopian PM Abiy Ahmed Engages in Reconciliation Talks in Somalia
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited Somalia for talks with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud aimed at bolstering reconciliation. Their discussions included security, politics, and counterterrorism efforts. Despite the visit, mortar attacks near the airport were reported. Tensions remain high following past agreements affecting Ethiopia’s relationship with Somaliland.
On Thursday, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited Somalia to engage in discussions with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. The primary focus of their talks was to enhance the reconciliation process between the two nations, which remains fragile. A statement from the Somali government indicated that the leaders would discuss various critical topics, including security, politics, diplomacy, economics, and counterterrorism efforts affecting the region.
Security officials confirmed that Prime Minister Abiy’s delegation departed the airport securely. However, shortly after their convoy left for the presidential palace, eyewitnesses reported mortar attacks in regions close to the airport. Notably, it remains unclear whether these attacks are connected to Abiy’s visit, as Somalia continues to grapple with significant instability and a robust presence of the Islamist group Al-Shabaab.
Local resident Abdiraham Hassan reported, “Two rounds of mortar shells landed in Bulohubey neighbourhood. An elderly woman was wounded after the shell exploded close to her house.” A member of Prime Minister Abiy’s team stated to AFP that they were not aware of any such attacks occurring during their visit.
Tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia intensified after Ethiopia entered into an agreement with the breakaway region of Somaliland to ensure maritime access. However, in January, diplomatic relations were fully restored following a peace agreement brokered by Turkey. A source from the Somali presidential office, wishing to remain anonymous, indicated that Abiy’s visit aims to further implement the Ankara agreement.
Somaliland’s claims regarding the January 2024 agreement suggested that it would lead to Ethiopian recognition of its independence in return for a naval base. However, this proposition was never officially confirmed by Ethiopia, prompting strong objections from Mogadishu, culminating in the recall of its ambassador to Ethiopia in protest. Despite the recent diplomatic easing, the future of Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland remains uncertain.
In summary, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s visit to Somalia aimed to solidify reconciliation between the two countries amidst ongoing security issues. The discussions covered a range of pressing concerns, including counterterrorism and diplomatic ties. While there has been a noted improvement in relations, uncertainties remain regarding Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland, which has generated significant tension in the region.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
