Ethiopia, Somalia seek to mend ties with high-level visit to Mogadishu

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Ethiopia's Minister of Defense, Aisha Mohammed, is leading a delegation to Mogadishu on Thursday, marking a significant diplomatic effort between the two Horn of Africa neighbors who have been at odds since the signing of a controversial maritime agreement in 2024.

The visit comes after escalating tensions sparked by Ethiopia's memorandum of understanding with the breakaway Somaliland region, granting Ethiopia access to the Red Sea. Somalia has vehemently opposed the deal, viewing it as a violation of its sovereignty.

This visit aims to implement the Ankara Declaration, a recent agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia to normalize relations, and discuss the transition of Ethiopian troops from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) to the new African Union Support to Somalia Mission (AUSSOM). The presence of Ethiopian forces, which number around 3,000, has been a contentious issue, with Somalia previously threatening to expel them.

The delegation's discussions will focus on security cooperation and the broader implementation of the Ankara deal, with both nations expressing a desire to move past the diplomatic fallout. This visit could signify a pivotal moment in de-escalating regional tensions and fostering cooperation against shared security threats, including the persistent challenge posed by the Al-Shabaab militant group.

Egypt has also shown support for Somalia's position, committing to contribute over 5,000 troops to AUSSOM, indicating a broader regional interest in stabilizing Somalia.

Aisha Mohammed, who has served in various ministerial roles and is a prominent figure in Ethiopia's push for gender equality in leadership, brings a significant diplomatic weight to the talks. Her visit underscores Ethiopia's commitment to dialogue, despite the diplomatic strain caused by the MOU.

GAROWE ONLINE