Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited Somalia to reinforce ties with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud following a diplomatic dispute. Discussions centered on peace, economy, and security, despite reported mortar attacks nearby. The visit aimed to solidify the normalization of relations after a previous disagreement over Somaliland. The future implications of Ethiopia’s arrangement with Somaliland remain uncertain amidst ongoing regional tensions.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited Somalia on Thursday to strengthen ties with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud amidst a recent diplomatic dispute concerning a separatist region. The leaders engaged in discussions focusing on peace and security, economic collaboration, and plans for joint infrastructure projects, with additional emphasis on combating terrorism in the region, as stated by the Somali government in a pre-meeting announcement.
Following the official meetings, local reports indicated mortar shelling near Mogadishu airport, although it remains unclear if these incidents were linked to the Prime Minister’s visit. Security officials confirmed Abiy’s delegation departed from the airport without incident, despite the nearby violence, which is attributed to the volatile presence of the Islamist group Al-Shabab in Somalia.
Relations between Ethiopia and Somalia have been tense since Ethiopia finalized an agreement with Somaliland last year, aiming for maritime access. Despite previous conflicts, both nations recently restored diplomatic relations in January, following mediation efforts by Turkey. Their joint statement emphasized that the visit signified a commitment to normalize bilateral relations between the two countries.
Prime Minister Abiy expressed the necessity of regional cooperation in his remarks after the meeting. A source from the Somali presidential palace indicated that the visit was part of ongoing efforts to implement the Ankara agreement made in December regarding bilateral relations.
The deal involving Ethiopia and Somaliland appeared to promise potential recognition of Somaliland’s independence in exchange for establishing a naval base. This situation prompted significant discontent from Mogadishu, resulting in the withdrawal of its ambassador from Ethiopia. The impact of this deal on the countries’ relations remains uncertain after recent efforts to strengthen diplomatic ties.
In summary, the visit of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to Somalia is a crucial step toward mending relations following a diplomatic fallout related to Somaliland. The discussions focusing on peace, security, and infrastructure highlight a mutual interest in collaboration. However, ongoing security challenges and the ramifications of previous agreements with Somaliland pose significant hurdles to complete normalization between Ethiopia and Somalia.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
