Ethiopia and Somalia Strengthen Ties Through High-Level Visits

Synopsis

Ethiopia and Somalia are enhancing their diplomatic relations through high-level visits, as reported by Ethiopian Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Nebiat Getachew. The two nations are collaborating on strategic projects and have agreed to participate in peacekeeping efforts in Somalia.

Key Takeaways

Ethiopia and Somalia are improving their relations.
High-level visits play a crucial role in diplomacy.
Strategic projects will benefit both nations.
Ethiopia will engage in peacekeeping in Somalia.
Both countries are committed to combating terrorism.

Addis Ababa, Feb 28 (NationPress) Relations between Ethiopia and Somalia have shown significant improvement through a series of high-level visits, as stated by the spokesperson of the Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nebiat Getachew, on Friday.

According to Getachew, initiatives aimed at enhancing the diplomatic ties between Ethiopia and Somalia have yielded positive results, particularly under the umbrella of political dialogue, as mentioned in a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The spokesperson highlighted the recent trip of Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali to Somalia as a clear signal of revitalized relations, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their bilateral interactions.

Both nations have reached an agreement to work together on strategic initiatives that will benefit their citizens, Getachew noted. He also confirmed Ethiopia's involvement in peacekeeping operations within Somalia.

Additionally, he remarked that both countries are committed to playing a pivotal role in combating terrorism and contributing to peace and security at both the regional and international levels.

A statement released late Thursday noted that the Ethiopian Prime Minister expressed gratitude for the warm and brotherly welcome extended by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud during his visit to Somalia.

"Our discussions encompassed essential topics such as peace and security, economic cooperation, diplomacy, and opportunities for joint infrastructure development," Abiy said, according to Xinhua news agency.

Relations between Somalia and Ethiopia became strained in January 2024 after Ethiopia entered into a controversial agreement with Somaliland, a self-declared region of Somalia, allowing landlocked Ethiopia to lease 20 kilometers of Somaliland's coastline, including access to the Red Sea port of Berbera, for a period of 50 years.

In return, Ethiopia agreed to recognize Somaliland diplomatically, a decision that Somalia condemned as an infringement on its territorial integrity and sovereignty. As both countries endeavor to repair their relationship, addressing the dispute regarding Ethiopia's maritime access arrangement with Somaliland remains a significant hurdle.