Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Visits Somalia, Signaling Renewed Diplomacy

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has visited Somalia for the first time in months, signaling the end of tensions between the two nations over Red Sea access. He met with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to discuss enhancing trade and security ties. The visit underscores the commitment of both countries to regional stability amid a complex geopolitical landscape.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has made his inaugural visit to Somalia following a notably tense period between Mogadishu and Addis Ababa, sparked by a contentious agreement regarding Red Sea access signed between Ethiopia and Somaliland. His arrival at Aden Abdulle International Airport occurred shortly after a mortar attack on the facility, highlighting the precarious security situation in Somalia.

Upon his arrival, he was met by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud amidst heightened security measures. Access routes to both the airport and presidential palace were fortified, reflecting the ongoing security concerns. The two leaders are expected to engage in discussions aimed at strengthening trade relations and diplomatic ties in the aftermath of previous tensions, according to state media reports.

The state media indicated that the discussions will focus on enhancing security cooperation, developing trade partnerships, and deepening diplomatic relations between Ethiopia and Somalia. The visit signals a renewed commitment from both nations toward regional stability and economic collaboration. Notably, Somalia has entered a new alliance led by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi, which includes Egypt and Eritrea, both long-standing rivals of Ethiopia.

The resolution of conflict between Ethiopia and Somalia was facilitated through negotiations in Turkey, where a mutual understanding was reached to establish technical committees to address Ethiopia’s aspirations for access to regional markets while respecting Somalia’s sovereignty. Additionally, prior to the Prime Minister’s visit, Ethiopia’s Chief of Defence Forces, General Burham Jula, visited Somalia, resulting in the approval for the Ethiopian National Defense Forces’ involvement in the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).

In conclusion, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s visit to Somalia marks a pivotal moment in the reignited diplomatic relations between the two nations. This visit emphasizes their shared commitment to regional stability and enhanced cooperation in security and trade. Following resolving tensions over territorial disputes and external alliances, both countries seem poised for a collaborative future.

Original Source: www.garoweonline.com