Mortars were fired at the airport in Mogadishu as Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited. Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was present during the incident, which coincided with a heightened security lockdown. The leaders are set to discuss bilateral issues following an agreement in December ending regional tensions.
In the Somali capital, Mogadishu, several mortars were discharged towards the airport amid the visit of Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. Reports indicate that during this alarming incident, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was present in the VIP area of the airport to formally welcome the prime minister. The city is currently under a strict lockdown to ensure heightened security for the visit.
According to a security official who remained anonymous due to media restrictions, some mortars struck near the Aden Adde International Airport; however, there was no immediate confirmation regarding any casualties. The attack coincided with Prime Minister Abiy’s arrival in Mogadishu as the two leaders aimed to enhance cooperation on various bilateral issues, including security and trade relations.
The discussions between Prime Minister Abiy and President Mohamud follow the Ankara Declaration, which resolved a nearly year-long diplomatic stalemate between Ethiopia and Somalia. This declaration emerged from discussions held in December, facilitated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara, and underscores a commitment to improving bilateral relations between the neighboring nations.
The mortar attack during the Ethiopian Prime Minister’s visit to Mogadishu highlighted the tense security situation in Somalia amidst efforts to strengthen ties with Ethiopia. As both leaders engage in critical discussions surrounding security and trade, the incident raises concerns over the stability in the region and emphasizes the need for ongoing cooperation between the two nations to address threats effectively.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
