Ethiopia’s Army Chief Enhances Bilateral Relations with Somalia

Ethiopia’s Army Chief, Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, visited Somalia to enhance bilateral relations and discuss Ethiopia’s role in the African Union mission. The meeting included high-level officials from both nations and emphasized cooperation in security efforts against extremism. The visit follows key leadership discussions and highlights Ethiopia’s commitment to regional stability.

On Sunday, Ethiopia’s Army Chief, Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, led a prominent delegation during an unannounced visit to Somalia. The discussions focused on enhancing bilateral ties and Ethiopia’s participation in the African Union mission, following recent leadership meetings in Addis Ababa.
Birhanu’s delegation included Redwan Hussien, Director General of Ethiopia’s National Intelligence and Security Service. They engaged with Somalia’s military chief, General Odawa Yusuf Rage, and Abdullahi Mohammed Ali, Director of the National Intelligence and Security Agency, emphasizing Ethiopia’s ongoing support in combating terrorism and fostering peace in Somalia.
Ethiopia has significantly contributed to the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) since its inception in 2007, which has evolved into the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), with Ethiopian forces remaining essential. Both Ethiopian and Somali officials expressed optimism in deepening cooperation, highlighting Ethiopia’s commitment to regional stability.
This visit was a follow-up to discussions between Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohammed, reinforcing a renewed initiative for collaboration. Ethiopia’s foreign policy aims to promote peaceful relations with neighboring countries, accentuating the recent Ankara Agreement as a framework for advancing regional peace and development.
Somali security officials acknowledged the pivotal role of international peacekeeping, particularly ATMIS, in securing the nation’s stability. Both Ethiopia and Somalia reiterated their commitment to countering extremism and enhancing security within the Horn of Africa, notwithstanding Somalia’s past decision to exclude Ethiopian troops from the upcoming AUSSOM mission following the Red Sea MoU with Somaliland.

The visit of Ethiopia’s Army Chief to Somalia marked a crucial step in strengthening bilateral relations and reaffirming Ethiopia’s commitment to regional security. The discussions highlighted the importance of international collaboration in countering terrorism and ensuring lasting peace in the region. Despite earlier geopolitical tensions, both nations expressed optimism for future cooperation underpinned by recent diplomatic agreements.

Original Source: www.garoweonline.com