Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed is set to visit Mogadishu for talks with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, following an advance Ethiopian team’s presence in Somalia. This visit aims to finalize negotiations based on the Ankara Declaration, which seeks to ease tensions between the nations and enhance Ethiopia’s access to maritime resources through Somalia while ensuring Somalia’s sovereignty is respected.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed will soon visit Mogadishu for critical discussions with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, as confirmed by officials from both nations. This visit follows the arrival of an Ethiopian advance team in Somalia’s capital and is part of efforts to finalize negotiations stemming from the Ankara Declaration—a significant agreement brokered by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan last December.
The Ankara Declaration, signed on December 11, 2024, symbolized a pivotal shift in the historically strained relations between Ethiopia and Somalia. It aimed to ease rising tensions exacerbated by Ethiopia’s controversial agreement with Somalia’s breakaway region of Somaliland, which had been viewed by Mogadishu as a breach of its sovereignty. Concerns over regional instability had drawn in other powers such as Egypt and Eritrea.
The December agreement committed both Ethiopia and Somalia to resolve their disputes through dialogue, while recognizing Somalia’s territorial integrity. Ethiopia, being landlocked, seeks secure maritime access via Somali ports, addressing its economic needs. Technical negotiations to finalize this framework are ongoing, with a target completion date within the next four months.
An Ethiopian government spokesperson emphasized that Abiy’s visit demonstrates a commitment to fortifying bilateral relations and advancing mutual priorities. Somali officials also conveyed that this engagement builds upon previous diplomatic efforts, including President Mohamud’s unexpected visit to Addis Ababa in January and various visits by Ethiopian ministers to Mogadishu.
A senior Somali official remarked, “The president’s visit to Mogadishu is a testament to the progress made since Ankara,” highlighting a move towards collaboration rather than conflict. This reconciliation also positions Turkey as a significant regional mediator, further enhancing its influence in the Horn of Africa.
The agenda for Abiy’s visit will include discussions regarding Ethiopia’s potential participation in the upcoming African Union peacekeeping mission in Somalia, known as AUSSOM. Although Somalia initially threatened to expel Ethiopian troops amid the Somaliland crisis, the Ankara Declaration has allowed for a negotiated continuation of their involvement.
Abiy Ahmed’s upcoming trip marks a new chapter in Ethiopia-Somalia relations, as both countries confront common security threats, including those posed by al-Shabab militants. Post-discussion, both leaders are expected to reveal details regarding the implementation of the Ankara Declaration, with heightened security measures already in place around key locations in Mogadishu.
Somalia is currently hosting Ethiopian technical teams to prepare for these negotiations, which Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi described as “a significant step forward,” emphasizing the importance of mutual understanding in this process. While no specific date for Abiy’s visit has been announced, preparations are underway to ensure a secure summit environment.
The forthcoming visit of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to Mogadishu marks a significant development in the diplomatic relations between Ethiopia and Somalia. It represents a commitment to strengthen ties under the Ankara Declaration, which emphasizes dialogue and mutual respect. With both nations focused on cooperation and security, this visit could pave the way for enhanced regional stability and collaborative efforts against ongoing threats.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
