Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud visited Ethiopia to enhance bilateral relations following the Ankara Declaration, aimed at resolving territorial disputes and economic cooperation. His visit is significant as it is his first since claiming he was barred entry to the African Union and reflects a broader effort to mend ties after a year of tensions, including a dispute over maritime access agreements involving Somaliland.
Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud made a significant visit to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, which coincided with the one-month anniversary of a pivotal diplomatic agreement between the two nations. Received warmly by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed at the airport, Mohamud’s presence symbolized a commitment to enhancing bilateral relations following a tumultuous year marked by disputes over territorial sovereignty and maritime access agreements involving the breakaway region of Somaliland.
In December, Ethiopia and Somalia agreed to the ‘Ankara Declaration,’ a framework for addressing their disputes and preserving mutual sovereignty. The agreement emphasized cooperation, aiming to facilitate Ethiopia’s access to maritime resources while respecting Somalia’s territorial rights. Mohamud’s visit is seen as a progression of this agreement, as it was his first diplomatic engagement since his claims of being barred from the African Union in February 2024.
As part of a broader regional diplomatic initiative, which included previous engagements with Uganda’s leadership, Mohamud’s discussions in Ethiopia focus on advancing collaborative economic endeavors and stability in the Horn of Africa. The relationship between Somalia and Kenya has also improved substantially, with significant increases in trade reported subsequent to Somalia joining the East African Community.
The diplomatic relations between Somalia and Ethiopia have been historically strained, particularly due to disputes involving territorial integrity and access to maritime resources. In December 2023, Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland over land leases raised concerns in Mogadishu, leading to accusations of sovereignty violations. The Ankara Declaration, facilitated by Turkey, was a diplomatic breakthrough aimed at resolving these issues by reinforcing mutual respect and establishing cooperative arrangements. This visit of President Mohamud is therefore a crucial step in mending and strengthening these bilateral ties.
In summary, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s visit to Ethiopia signifies a crucial diplomatic engagement aimed at repairing and enhancing relations strained by previous conflicts over territorial sovereignty and economic arrangements. The ongoing cooperative efforts between Somalia and Ethiopia under the Ankara Declaration reflect a commitment to mutual respect and a desire for regional stability. This visit highlights the importance of continuing dialogue to foster sustainable growth and peace in the Horn of Africa.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
