ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia - The President of the Federal Republic of Somalia Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo arrived in Addis Ababa on Thursday, October 10 on an unannounced visit, Garowe Online reports.

Upon his arrival at Bole International airport, Farmajo was accorded a warm welcome by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and other higher Ethiopian government officials, according to a statement by Villa Somalia.

The stat president traveled Addis Ababa after receiving an invitation from Abiy and both leaders will discuss strengthening bilateral relations and overall cooperation on regional security and the economy.

Sources tell Garowe Online that Farmajo will join African leaders set to grace the official inauguration of the newly refurbished Unity Park, found in the restored National Palace, in the heart of Addis Ababa.

The statement added the President is accompanied on his Ethiopian trip by the Minister of Foreign Affairs Ahmed Isse Awad, Deputy Finance Minister Abdullahi Sheikh Ali and several Presidential advisors.

While in Addis Ababa, the leaders are also expected to hold bilateral meetings on the sidelines, aimed at boosting regional cooperation among the East African states.

GAROWE ONLINE