Ethiopia’s Defence Minister, Aisha Mohammed Mussa, visited Somalia, marking the first trip since diplomatic tensions escalated over Ethiopia’s naval base plans in Somaliland. This visit underscores efforts to reconcile following a year of strained relations, amid both nations navigating security concerns related to Al-Shabaab and the implications of their agreements with Somaliland.
Ethiopia’s Defence Minister, Aisha Mohammed Mussa, made a significant visit to Somalia on Thursday, marking the first bilateral engagement since relations deteriorated a year ago due to an Ethiopian initiative to establish a naval base in the self-declared autonomous region of Somaliland. Although the purpose of Minister Mussa’s visit was not disclosed, it represents an attempt to mend relations between the two nations, which have been strained amid escalating tensions over territorial issues.
The historical context of this visit stems from Ethiopia’s deployment of approximately 10,000 troops in Somalia as part of the effort to combat the militant group Al-Shabaab. However, the deployment has faced contention, particularly after Mogadishu expressed intentions to expel Ethiopian forces unless the latter relinquished its prior agreement with Somaliland regarding the naval base lease. The agreement, which proposed to recognize Somaliland’s independence in exchange for a strategic lease, is seen by Mogadishu as an affront to its territorial integrity.
Recently, Somalia and Ethiopia reached an agreement on December 11 to engage in dialogue aimed at resolving their differences, following discussions in Turkey. This dialogue is viewed as essential to stabilize the volatile region, particularly with fears that a withdrawal of Ethiopian troops could weaken the efforts against Al-Shabaab, which has been active in Somalia since 2007. Furthermore, the tensions surrounding Somaliland and Ethiopia have prompted Somalia to strengthen ties with Ethiopia’s regional competitors, namely Egypt and Eritrea, highlighting the intricate dynamics at play in the Horn of Africa.
The bilateral relations between Ethiopia and Somalia have a complex history, with recent tensions intensifying due to Ethiopia’s proposed military presence in Somaliland. Somaliland, a region that has declared independence since 1991, remains unrecognized internationally, complicating Somalia’s claim over the territory. Ethiopia’s military involvement in Somalia is part of broader efforts to combat Al-Shabaab and maintain stability in the region. The conflict surrounding the naval base deal reflects deeper geopolitical rivalries in the Horn of Africa, influencing external alliances and regional security dynamics.
In summary, the recent visit of Ethiopia’s Defence Minister to Somalia is a pivotal step towards restoring bilateral relations that have been fraught with tension. As both countries navigate the fallout from past agreements and address ongoing security threats, their cooperation remains vital not only for internal stability but also for regional security in the Horn of Africa. The resolution of these tensions will be critical as Somalia and Ethiopia seek to collaborate in the face of shared challenges, particularly from militant groups.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
