Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed is set to visit Mogadishu to meet with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, focusing on finalizing technical negotiations from the Ankara Declaration. This agreement has been pivotal in improving Ethiopia-Somalia relations, addressing previous disputes over Somaliland, and establishing a framework for Ethiopia’s maritime access. The visit underlines a mutual commitment to cooperation and regional stability, with discussions also covering Ethiopia’s role in a new African Union peacekeeping mission.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed is scheduled to visit Mogadishu soon for significant discussions with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, as confirmed by officials from both nations. This visit follows an Ethiopian advance team arriving in Somalia’s capital, aimed at finalizing technical negotiations in accordance with the Ankara Declaration, an important agreement established with the assistance of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan last December.
The Ankara Declaration, signed on December 11, 2024, represented a milestone in the historically strained relations between Ethiopia and Somalia. It sought to alleviate tensions that escalated due to Ethiopia’s contentious agreement concerning Somaliland, which threatened Somalia’s sovereignty. This dispute had the potential to destabilize the wider Horn of Africa region, involving nations such as Egypt and Eritrea.
Under the terms of the December agreement, Ethiopia and Somalia committed to addressing their disagreements through dialogue. The declaration recognized Somalia’s territorial integrity while allowing Ethiopia, a landlocked country, to attain sustainable commercial access to the sea via Somali ports. Technical negotiations have already begun and are expected to conclude by late spring.
Officials from both countries have expressed that Prime Minister Abiy’s forthcoming visit reflects a dedication to enhancing bilateral relations and prioritizing shared objectives. Recent diplomatic exchanges, including President Mohamud’s unexpected trip to Addis Ababa, signify the progress made in their cooperation. One Somali official stated that ongoing talks indicate a shift towards collaboration rather than conflict.
The reconciliation has been viewed as a diplomatic achievement for Turkey, which has established itself as a crucial mediator in the region. Turkey’s historical connections with both Ethiopia and Somalia—evident through its military presence in Mogadishu—have facilitated this breakthrough. Experts assert that this agreement not only serves Ethiopia’s economic interests but also reinforces Turkey’s standing in the Horn of Africa.
Among the topics to be discussed in Mogadishu is Ethiopia’s prospective involvement in a new African Union peacekeeping mission in Somalia. This mission, known as AUSSOM, is set to take over from the current one expiring this year. Although Somalia had previously considered expelling Ethiopian troops due to the disagreement over Somaliland, the Ankara agreement has now paved the way for their continued participation under negotiated terms.
Abiy Ahmed’s upcoming visit marks his first trip to Mogadishu since the signing of the December agreement, indicating a transformative phase for both nations. Their long-standing rivalry has often hindered regional efforts against security threats, such as those posed by al-Shabab militants. Following their discussions, it is anticipated that both leaders will hold a joint press conference to provide additional details regarding the Ankara Declaration’s implementation.
This visit coincides with the arrival of technical teams from both nations, and Ethiopian negotiators have already begun groundwork discussions. Somali Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi characterized this dialogue as a significant advancement, attributing the progress to “mutual tolerance and goodwill.” Although the specific date of Abiy’s arrival has yet to be disclosed, security measures have been heightened around Mogadishu’s airport and government areas in preparation for the summit.
In summary, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s upcoming visit to Mogadishu signifies a commitment to strengthening relations between Ethiopia and Somalia following the Ankara Declaration. This agreement has opened avenues for dialogue, reaffirmed Somalia’s territorial integrity, and intended to enhance Ethiopia’s access to maritime resources. The collaboration marks a significant development in the geopolitical landscape of the Horn of Africa, set against a backdrop of regional stability and security considerations.
Original Source: garoweonline.com
