Somali President Receives Guard of Honor from Ethiopian Navy, Visits Historical Sites

ADDIS ABABA - After a two-day visit to Ethiopia, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud visited several historical landmarks in Addis Ababa before heading back to Mogadishu, according to a statement from the Ethiopian government on Sunday.

During his time in the capital, President Mohamud engaged in confidential discussions with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and other top officials, emphasizing the enhancement of mutual relations, security partnerships, economic progress, and regional trade.

The Somali President was seen being saluted by an honor guard from Ethiopia's navy, despite the country being landlocked and lacking a traditional naval force. This salute underscores Ethiopia's aspirations to expand its naval presence through cooperative agreements with neighboring countries.

Mohamud also visited memorials and sites that honor Ethiopia's historical figures and past events, including those commemorating victims of the 1977 War, reflecting on the shared history between Ethiopia and Somalia.

Ethiopia highlighted the critical role of its relationship with Somalia in maintaining peace and fostering development in the region. President Mohamud echoed this sentiment, underscoring Somalia's commitment to improving relations with neighboring nations, particularly while addressing threats from Al-Shabaab.

The leaders agreed on the importance of further collaboration in areas like economic growth, trade, and counter-terrorism to secure the Horn of Africa's stability.

President Hassan Sheikh's visit marks an effort to revitalize and strengthen the bond between Ethiopia and Somalia, overcoming past disputes to advance common interests in a challenging region.

GAROWE ONLINE