Somalia and Ethiopia: A Diplomatic Tale of Two Cities
ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia — In a plot twist worthy of the theater, Somalia and Ethiopia have shaken hands and declared a one-act play of renewed diplomacy. As of Thursday, a statement was released that read like a joyous invitation to rekindle their washed-out relationship, promising full diplomatic representation in each other’s capitals, where once there was only a hint of a cold shoulder.
Just last year, things took a nosedive when Somalia gave the boot to two Ethiopian diplomats, including no less than the ambassador from Addis Ababa. A bold move if ever there was one! On top of that, Somalia told Ethiopia’s consulates in Hargeisa, North Western State of Somalia, and Garowe, Northeastern State to pack up and go home. Yet, like any good cliffhanger, those consulates didn’t actually budge—staying put like actors refusing to leave the stage before curtain call.
Flash forward to this year, and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud made a grand entrance into Ethiopia. Maybe it was the allure of the coffee or perhaps Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s irresistible charisma, but whatever the cause, hearts seemed to soften and the talk took a sweeter tone. Over tea (or perhaps something stronger), the two leaders discussed everything from neighborly love to beefing up security and economic ties like old pals at a reunion, eager for a fresh start that emphasizes mutual trust, sincerity, and fundamentals.
In their chat, improving security cooperation was on the menu, alongside economic partnerships and infrastructure upgrades to boost trade and let the good times roll. Both leaders saluted the Ankara Declaration and pledged, with a wink and a nod, to push forward the technical negotiations spelled out in their previous declarations.
This cordial agreement marks a significant leap towards regularizing the tango between these two East African neighbors. After a long stretch of diplomatic woes and posturing, it’s a promising prologue to what could be a harmonious chapter ahead.
AXADLETM
