Ethiopia and Somalia Reaffirm Diplomatic Relations Following Tensions

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited Somalia to reinforce ties amid prior tensions regarding Somaliland. Discussions focused on security, economic collaboration, and infrastructure. Despite mortar attacks in the vicinity, the Ethiopian delegation’s visit was deemed successful. The meeting represents a significant step towards restoring diplomatic relations between the two nations after last year’s conflict over maritime agreements.

Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed made an official visit to Somalia on Thursday, where he engaged in discussions with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud aimed at strengthening their diplomatic relations following a recent disagreement over their ties to the Somaliland region. The dialogue encompassed various topics, including peace, security, economic collaboration, and the development of joint infrastructure projects, according to Ahmed’s statement on social media shortly after their meeting.

Prior to the meeting, the Somali government indicated that counter-terrorism efforts in the region would also be part of the conversation. Following the delegation’s passage through the area, mortar attacks occurred near Mogadishu airport, although the connection to Prime Minister Abiy’s visit remains uncertain. Security officials asserted that the Ethiopian delegation departed the airport safely without incident.

The security landscape in Somalia is precarious, primarily due to the presence of the Islamist group Al-Shabab. Local resident Abdiraham Hassan reported that two mortar shells struck the Bulohubey neighborhood, injuring an elderly woman. Meanwhile, a member of the Ethiopian delegation stated they had not received any prior information regarding the attacks.

Tensions escalated between Ethiopia and Somalia last year when Ethiopia engaged in a maritime agreement with Somaliland, a Somali separatist region. This development prompted a withdrawal of Somalia’s ambassador to Ethiopia. However, in January 2023, the two countries announced a full restoration of diplomatic ties following mediation by Turkey.

In summary, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s visit to Somalia marks a renewed effort towards diplomatic reconciliation following past tensions related to Somaliland. The discussions emphasized crucial areas such as security and economic cooperation, while also highlighting Somalia’s ongoing challenges with terrorism. The fate of Ethiopia’s prior agreements with Somaliland remains ambiguous in light of this newfound cooperation.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com