Somali, Ethiopian Leaders Set for Talks as Ties Continue to Improve

GOOBJOOG NEWS | ADDIS ABABA: Federal Republic of Somalia President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud arrived in Addis Ababa on Sunday for a one-day working visit, where he is expected to hold talks with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation on security, economic development and regional stability.

The visit marks the latest high-level engagement between the two Horn of Africa neighbours as they continue efforts to rebuild ties following months of diplomatic tensions.

According to statements from both governments, President Mohamud and Prime Minister Abiy are expected to discuss regional security, political cooperation and economic relations, while exploring ways to deepen collaboration on issues of mutual interest.

The meeting is also expected to reaffirm the two countries’ commitment to maintaining dialogue based on mutual respect, good neighbourliness and shared regional interests.

Relations between Somalia and Ethiopia have improved significantly since the two governments agreed to restore diplomatic engagement under the Turkish-brokered Ankara Declaration, which helped ease tensions triggered by Ethiopia’s 2024 agreement with Somaliland over access to the Red Sea. Mogadishu condemned the deal as a violation of Somalia’s sovereignty, leading to one of the deepest diplomatic rifts between the neighbouring states in recent years.

The talks are expected to build on the rapprochement between Mogadishu and Addis Ababa, with both governments seeking closer cooperation on security, trade and regional stability as they confront shared challenges across the Horn of Africa.