Mortars Fired Near Mogadishu Airport During Ethiopian Premier’s Visit

Mortars were fired toward Mogadishu Airport as Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited Somalia. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was present at the airport. The city is under strict lockdown for security. The two leaders are set to discuss key bilateral relations, following the Anchorage Declaration, which resolved previous tensions.

MOGADISHU, Somalia – Several mortars were launched toward the airport in the Somali capital as preparations ensued for the arrival of Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. According to the Somali Stream news outlet, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was present in the VIP area of the airport at the time of the incident. Amid this heightened security situation, the city remains under a strict lockdown to ensure safety during the visit.

A security official, who requested anonymity due to media restrictions, reported to Anadolu Agency that some mortars impacted areas near the Mogadishu Aden Adde International Airport. Although the official did not confirm any casualties, this occurring incident highlights the precarious security environment during significant political events.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s visit aims to facilitate discussions with President Mohamud regarding various bilateral concerns, including security collaboration, trade relations, and strengthening the partnership between Somalia and Ethiopia. These conversations follow the Anchorage Declaration, which was pivotal in resolving a prolonged diplomatic standoff between the two nations.

This declaration was established in December during discussions in Ankara that involved President Mohamud and Prime Minister Abiy, under the mediation of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. With both leaders indicating a commitment to advancing their countries’ relationship through state visits, this marks a new chapter in Somali-Ethiopian diplomatic ties.

In conclusion, the mortar attack during Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s visit to Mogadishu underscores the challenges facing Somalia in terms of security. Despite the incident, leaders are determined to strengthen cooperation on significant issues. The meeting outlines a commitment to enhance diplomatic relations following the Anchorage Declaration, aiming for sustained progress between Ethiopia and Somalia.

Original Source: www.aa.com.tr