Ethiopian PM Abiy Ahmed Engages in Reconciliation Talks in Somalia

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited Somalia for talks aimed at enhancing reconciliation with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. Key topics included security, politics, and counterterrorism, amid reports of mortar attacks in the area. Relations between Ethiopia and Somalia have improved recently after a peace deal, although tensions persist due to Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed arrived in Somalia on Thursday for critical discussions aimed at enhancing reconciliation between the two nations. His agenda with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud encompasses pivotal topics such as security, political matters, diplomatic efforts, economic collaboration, and counterterrorism initiatives within the region.

Upon arrival, security officials reported that Abiy’s entourage departed the airport without any incidents. However, following their departure towards the presidential palace, residents nearby reported mortar fire in the vicinity of the airport. The connection of these attacks to Abiy’s visit remains uncertain, particularly given the ongoing instability in Somalia, where the militant group Al-Shabaab wields significant influence.

Local resident Abdiraham Hassan mentioned, “Two rounds of mortar shells landed in Bulohubey neighbourhood. An elderly woman was wounded after the shell exploded close to her house,” as reported to AFP. A member of Ethiopia’s delegation stated they were unaware of any attacks occurring during the visit.

In recent developments, tension heightened between Ethiopia and Somalia following Ethiopia’s agreement with the breakaway region of Somaliland, facilitating access to the sea. Nonetheless, in January, the two nations restored diplomatic ties under a peace deal facilitated by Turkey, highlighting a potential shift in relations.

A source from the Somali presidential palace conveyed that Abiy’s visit serves as part of a broader effort to realize and implement the Ankara agreement established in Turkey. Although Somaliland asserted that its previous agreement with Ethiopia would prompt recognition of its independence in exchange for naval base access, Ethiopia has yet to publicly acknowledge this.

Mogadishu has shown strong opposition to the agreement, recalling its ambassador from Ethiopia in protest. Despite the positive steps towards restoring diplomatic relations, the future of the Ethiopian-Somaliland agreement remains uncertain, leaving complex geopolitical dynamics in play.

In conclusion, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s visit to Somalia focuses on strengthening reconciliation between Ethiopia and Somalia amidst ongoing regional instability. While there have been positive diplomatic advances following recent tensions, particularly relating to Somaliland, the uncertainty surrounding the future of these agreements indicates significant challenges remain in achieving lasting peace and cooperation. Both nations face a critical juncture regarding their political and diplomatic ties.

Original Source: newscentral.africa