Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has arrived in Somalia for the first time in months, marking the end of tensions related to the Red Sea access agreement. His visit involves discussions with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on trade and diplomatic relations, amid ongoing security concerns in the region. This meeting follows peace negotiations held in Turkey that aimed to resolve disputes and establish cooperative frameworks.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has made his inaugural visit to Somalia following a prolonged rift caused by a controversial agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland concerning access to the Red Sea. His arrival at Aden Abdulle International Airport was marked by heightened security measures due to a recent mortar attack near the facility, underscoring the precarious situation in the Horn of Africa region.
Upon landing, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed was greeted by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, as officials implemented security protocols that included closing off road access to the airport and the presidential palace. During this critical meeting, both leaders are expected to discuss trade partnerships and the restoration of diplomatic relations between the two nations, which have experienced months of tension.
A statement from the state media highlighted the significance of the meeting, stating, “President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud received Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed upon his arrival in Mogadishu. Their meeting will focus on enhancing security cooperation, boosting trade partnerships, and deepening diplomatic ties.” This visit is perceived as a strong indication of both nations’ commitment to ensuring regional stability and fostering economic collaboration.
In a broader regional context, Somalia has united with Egypt and Eritrea in a newly forged alliance led by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi, which has intensified conflicts with Ethiopia. A tripartite agreement among the nations has created concern in Addis Ababa, showcasing the complexities of regional alliances.
The recent impasse between Ethiopia and Somalia was mitigated through negotiations facilitated in Turkey, leading to the establishment of technical committees. These committees are tasked with addressing Ethiopia’s aspirations for access to sea routes while safeguarding Somalia’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. Prior to this visit, Ethiopia’s Chief of the Defence Forces visited Somalia, which resulted in the endorsement of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces’ role in the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).
In summary, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s visit to Somalia marks a pivotal moment in the restoration of relations between Ethiopia and Somalia. The discussions focused on enhancing trade, security, and diplomatic ties, underscoring both nations’ dedication to regional stability. Despite regional tensions and a complex geopolitical landscape, the commitment to cooperation and economic partnership remains strong between the two countries.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
