Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s visit to Ethiopia marks the first official trip following the resolution of bilateral disputes through the Ankara Declaration. The leaders agreed to restore full diplomatic representation and focus on cooperative efforts in regional matters. The visit emphasizes a new era of collaboration between the two nations, facilitated by Türkiye’s mediation efforts in earlier tensions stemming from port agreements with Somaliland.
In a significant move to enhance bilateral relations, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud visited Ethiopia, marking his first official trip since conflicts were amicably resolved through the Ankara Declaration, brokered by Türkiye. The visit was highlighted by discussions between the Somali president and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, where they agreed to restore full diplomatic representation in their capitals and expedite negotiations outlined in the Ankara Declaration to foster cooperation on regional issues of mutual concern. This renewed commitment comes after tensions escalated due to Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland over the Berbera port, which had strained relations in early 2024.
The diplomatic relations between Somalia and Ethiopia faced substantial challenges, particularly in early 2024 when disagreements arose over Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland for port access, which subsequently led to Somalia expelling the Ethiopian ambassador. The tensions continued until Türkiye facilitated dialogue, culminating in the Ankara Declaration in December 2023. This declaration aimed to resolve the disputes and promote cooperation, fostering an environment conducive to peace and collaboration.
The recent visit of Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to Ethiopia signifies a pivotal moment in the bilateral relations of the two countries, reflecting a commitment to diplomatic engagement and regional stability. The restoration of full diplomatic representation and the emphasis on cooperation outlined in the Ankara Declaration demonstrate a positive trajectory for future interactions between Somalia and Ethiopia. This development not only underscores the importance of mediation in resolving disputes but also highlights the potential for enhanced collaboration in addressing shared challenges.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
