Ethiopian PM Arrives in Mogadishu to Warm Welcome Amid Nearby Mortar Attack

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed received a warm welcome in Mogadishu on Thursday from Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, despite mortar shells landing near Aden Adde International Airport shortly before his arrival.

The Ethiopian PM touched down in the Somali capital for an official visit, undeterred by the attack, which underscored the persistent security challenges facing the Horn of Africa nation. Somali and Ethiopian officials did not immediately comment on the mortar fire, though such incidents are often linked to Al-Shabaab militants who have long targeted government and international presence in the city.

After the airport reception, Abiy and his delegation met President Hassan Sheikh at the Presidential Palace for talks aimed at deepening ties between the two neighbors. The agenda includes bolstering cooperation on security, trade, diplomacy, and regional stability, with a particular focus on combating terrorism—a shared threat that continues to hinder development in both countries.

Ethiopia has been a key partner in Somalia’s fight against Al-Shabaab, contributing troops to the African Union mission supporting the Somali government. The visit comes as both nations agreed to end their diplomatic tension after Ankara talks brokered by Erdogan in December 2024.

The two countries navigate complex regional dynamics and work to address the insurgency that has destabilized Somalia for over a decade. Ethiopia eyes access to the Red Sea through a deal with the Somali government after failing to implement an MoU with Somaliland.

GAROWE ONLINE