Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited Mogadishu, welcomed by President Hassan Sheikh Mohammed, marking progress in reconciliation following the Ankara Declaration. This agreement emphasizes mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, with Ethiopia rescinding a controversial memorandum on Somaliland. Also, Ethiopia pledged troops to the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia, with Turkey facilitating these diplomatic efforts.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed made a significant visit to Mogadishu on February 27, where he was welcomed by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohammed. This visit serves as a pivotal moment in the reconciliation efforts between Ethiopia and Somalia, following the “Ankara Declaration” signed in December under the guidance of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
The declaration emphasizes mutual respect for sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity between the two nations. Importantly, Ethiopia has opted to withdraw a controversial memorandum proposed in January 2024, which would have recognized Somaliland’s secession for 50 years in exchange for coastal access for Ethiopian naval forces. This memorandum had been criticized by the Somali government as a violation of its territorial rights.
During 2024, Turkey, acting as a mediator, facilitated discussions which led to the positive outcomes of the Ankara Declaration. Eritrea agreed to collaborate with Somalia in ensuring access to the sea under the latter’s sovereignty. Additionally, Ethiopia committed to sending 2,500 troops to the newly established African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) to aid in combating jihadist movements within the country.
Turkey’s military presence in Somalia has strengthened its involvement in the region, largely influenced by the improving relations between Ethiopian and Turkish political parties. Currently, a delegation from Ethiopia’s Prosperity Party is attending the 8th Congress of Turkey’s Justice and Development Party, further solidifying bilateral ties.
The visit of Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to Mogadishu underscores significant steps toward reconciliation between Ethiopia and Somalia, highlighted by the Ankara Declaration. The commitment to mutual sovereignty and Ethiopia’s troop contribution to AUSSOM marks a new chapter in the relationship between these two Horn of Africa nations, facilitated by Turkey’s influential role in mediation efforts.
Original Source: www.fides.org
