Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed arrived in Mogadishu on Thursday for high-level talks with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, Africanews reported.
The visit comes amid ongoing tensions sparked by Ethiopia’s controversial deal with Somaliland, a breakaway region of Somalia, and underscores efforts to stabilise the volatile Horn of Africa.
Relations between Ethiopia and Somalia deteriorated in 2024 after Ethiopia signed a memorandum of understanding with Somaliland to lease a 20-kilometer stretch of coastline. The agreement, which included plans for a naval base and commercial port, raised the possibility of Ethiopia recognising Somaliland’s independence—a move vehemently opposed by Somalia’s federal government in Mogadishu.
Somalia accused Ethiopia of violating its sovereignty and territorial integrity, leading to a diplomatic standoff.
In December 2024, Turkey mediated talks between the two countries, resulting in a pledge to find a mutually acceptable arrangement for Ethiopia’s access to the sea. President Mohamud’s visit to Ethiopia earlier in 2025 further signaled a willingness to engage in dialogue.
Thursday’s discussions in Mogadishu focused on a wide range of bilateral issues, including trade, security, and regional stability. Both leaders emphasised the importance of normalising relations and fostering co-operation to address shared challenges.
