Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is set to visit Ethiopia to reinforce a recent peace deal aimed at calming tensions in the Horn of Africa, arising from Ethiopia’s past agreements with Somaliland. The visit, requested by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, seeks to solidify cooperation despite ongoing unresolved issues.
The President of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, is scheduled to visit Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, following a peace agreement aimed at alleviating escalating tensions in the Horn of Africa. The diplomatic relations between Somalia and Ethiopia have been strained, particularly due to Ethiopia’s former agreement with Somaliland regarding port access. However, the recent agreement, mediated by Turkey, serves as a foundation for renewed cooperation between the two nations, highlighting the significance of this visit. Mohamud’s office praised the meeting as a symbol of collaboration between the countries. Nonetheless, various issues remain unaddressed as both nations move forward in their talks.
The Horn of Africa has been a region marked by political instability and conflict, with Somalia and Ethiopia at the center of longstanding disputes. Ethiopia, which is landlocked, has faced challenges regarding maritime access, which has led to grievances with neighboring countries. Last year, Ethiopia’s accord with Somaliland heightened tensions, prompting Somalia’s outrage over potential threats to its sovereignty. The recent peace deal brokered with Turkish mediation marks an attempt to mend relations and address the mutual interests of both nations.
The upcoming visit of President Mohamud to Ethiopia represents a significant step toward enhancing bilateral relations between Somalia and Ethiopia following a period of tension. The peace agreement serves as a beneficial framework for future cooperation. However, the unresolved issues that persist underscore the complexities of regional diplomacy in the Horn of Africa. The outcome of this visit will likely impact the broader dynamics in the region.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
