Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud visited Ethiopia for the first time since disputes were resolved through the Ankara Declaration. The countries agreed to restore diplomatic representation and enhance collaboration on shared interests. This visit follows tensions related to Somaliland’s port agreement and highlights renewed efforts for cooperation after Turkish mediation helped resolve the conflicts.
In a significant diplomatic development, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has embarked on his inaugural official visit to Ethiopia, following the resolution of bilateral disputes mediated by Turkey. The Somali and Ethiopian governments announced a mutual agreement to restore full diplomatic representation in their capitals. This decision is a result of high-level discussions held between President Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, focusing on enhancing relations and addressing mutual priorities.
Earlier disputes had escalated in April 2024, when Somalia expelled the Ethiopian ambassador amid disagreements over a port deal involving Somaliland and subsequently closed Ethiopian consulates in Hargeisa. Tensions were alleviated with the intervention of Turkey, which facilitated the Ankara Declaration aimed at promoting cooperation between the two neighboring nations. In reiterating their commitment to this agreement, both leaders emphasized the necessity for their respective diplomatic missions to collaborate in multilateral forums on shared interests.
The visit signifies a new chapter in Somali-Ethiopian relations, highlighting renewed efforts in fostering collaborative endeavors. The foundational issues leading to their discord began in January 2024 when Ethiopia entered into an agreement with Somaliland, further complicating the regional dynamics. The Turkish government actively mediated the talks that culminated in the Ankara Declaration, which was established in December 2023 during discussions hosted by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
The diplomatic relations between Somalia and Ethiopia have been historically complex, characterized by both cooperation and conflict. The recent disputes gained prominence in 2024 when Ethiopia signed an agreement with Somaliland, triggering backlash from Somalia. The situation escalated to the point where Somalia expelled the Ethiopian ambassador, resulting in significant diplomatic tensions. Turkey’s involvement served as a mediating force, ultimately leading to the Ankara Declaration, which aimed to renew and strengthen bilateral ties following these disputes.
In conclusion, the visit of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to Ethiopia marks a pivotal moment in the re-establishment of diplomatic relations between Somalia and Ethiopia. The renewed commitment to the Ankara Declaration represents a collective effort to foster improved cooperation and collaboration between the two nations, thereby addressing shared concerns and promoting regional stability. It underscores the importance of diplomacy in resolving conflicts and building a foundation for future partnerships.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
