Addis Abeba– The governments of Ethiopia and Somalia have agreed to enhance bilateral relations, strengthen regional security cooperation, and deepen economic ties following discussions between Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud during the latter’s working visit to Ethiopia.
In a joint communiqué, the two leaders agreed to “restore and enhance their bilateral relations through full diplomatic representation in their respective capitals” and instructed their diplomatic missions in multilateral and regional forums to “closely cooperate on matters of mutual interest.”
The communiqué further stated that “the stability of the region requires strong cooperation between the two countries” and noted that both sides had agreed to coordinate efforts to foster regional relations, shared progress, and mutual understanding.
The agreement follows Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s arrival in Addis Abeba earlier today for an official working visit, marking the end of a year-long diplomatic hiatus between Ethiopia and Somalia.
Relations between the two countries had been strained following disagreements over Ethiopia’s Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Somaliland, which aimed to grant Ethiopia sea access in exchange for potential recognition of Somaliland.
However, the recent signing of the Ankara Agreement, facilitated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, has helped to defuse tensions and paved the way for the renewal of diplomatic engagements.
On security matters, the leaders underscored the “serious and evolving threat posed by extremist militant groups” and agreed to direct their respective security agencies to “bolster cooperation in promoting peace and stability in the region.”
Economic collaboration was also a key focus, with both parties highlighting the importance of “intensifying economic cooperation, trade, and investment.” The communiqué noted that the two leaders had agreed to “expand infrastructure linkages to facilitate trade and shared prosperity through more robust economic cooperation.”
Reaffirming their commitment to the Ankara Declaration, the leaders emphasized the “spirit of friendship and solidarity that animates the Declaration” and agreed to “expedite the technical negotiations envisaged in the Declaration.” AS
