Somalia and Ethiopia Commit to Renewing Comprehensive Diplomatic Ties
In the heart of Addis Ababa, a significant tête-à-tête occurred. Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed shook hands, opting to reboot the diplomatic ties between their countries by promising full-scale embassies in each other’s capitals. This meetup happened on a bustling Saturday.
“We’re working towards a shared future,” explained Abiy. They both reckon that fostering cooperation in global and regional forums is a big deal. Not just talking, but laying a solid groundwork built on trust and respect is the name of the game. We’re not just neighbors; we’re partners in this rollercoaster ride called regional stability.
As if they were strategizing for a peace-themed mission impossible, the duo zeroed in on security matters. With the region feeling the heat from militant groups, they say, “We’re on the same team.” The leaders made a call to action, urging their security agencies to buddy up for regional peace.
Trading routes and bustling markets were also on their minds. Mohamud and Abiy nodded to the rhythm of increased trade, investment, and infrastructure love. “Let’s create a prosperous neighborhood,” Mohamud quipped, emphasizing the need for robust economic collaboration which serves as a backbone for both nations.
This diplomatic dance took place against a dramatic backdrop. Flashback to January 2024 — Ethiopia made waves by signing a dicey MoU with North Western State of Somalia, a self-declared autonomous region breaking away from Somalia. The deal? Ethiopia could set up a naval base on North Western State of Somalia’s coast, with the carrot being potential recognition of its independence.
Picture Somalia, not amused, wagging a finger, mulling over kicking out Ethiopian peacekeepers, cozying up to Ethiopia’s frenemies Egypt and Eritrea, and making waves of its own.
Fast forward a year, in the chill of Turkey, and cooler heads prevailed. December 11th, 2024, to be exact, marked a turning point. Somalia and Ethiopia decided to hash it out through technical talks slated for February.
President Mohamud didn’t just drop by unannounced. After rubbing elbows at an agriculture summit in the vibrant land of Uganda, he gallivanted to Ethiopia. His office was kind enough to spill the beans on the X platform, letting everyone in on the trip’s deets.
This diplomatic bromance hints at a future where dialogue, not disputes, writes the headlines. Both leaders seem to be turning pages, eager to draft narratives of unity and growth in the Horn of Africa. Their meeting was more than just politics; it was a testament to shared dreams and the power of coming together when circumstances seem dire.
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
Axadle international–Monitoring
