Regional security, cooperation take centre stage as Presidents Hassan Sheikh, Ruto meet in Kigali

Somalia President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud met with his Kenyan counterpart William Ruto of Kenya in Kigali on Sunday where they discussed key regional issues, including counter-terrorism efforts and the exploration of further cooperation between their countries.

The meeting took place on the sidelines of President Paul Kagame's inauguration ceremony.

In a post on social media platform X, Villa Somalia, the official residence of the Somali President said the discussions focused on addressing the challenges faced by the region, particularly in the fight against terrorism.

The two leaders also explored ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation.

President Mohamud and President Ruto reaffirmed the strong partnership between Somalia and Kenya.

They emphasised the importance of the long-standing people-to-people relations that have characterised interactions between the two countries.

Both leaders expressed a shared commitment to advancing regional peace, stability and development.

"Their discussions centred on the pressing challenges facing the region, including efforts to counter terrorism and explore further avenues of cooperation," read part of the post.

The relationship between Kenya and Somalia has greatly improved in recent months with the two heads of state meeting frequently, signalling a renewed focus on diplomatic relations and regional cooperation.

Thawing relations

This comes at a time when Somalia is engaged in a diplomatic dispute over Ethiopia's Berbera port deal with Somaliland.

Turkey has taken a leading role in trying to de-escalate the tension between the two East African nations. Turkey's efforts are focused on facilitating talks between Somalia and Ethiopia.

On Sunday, the Office of the President of Somalia expressed gratitude to Turkey for its mediation efforts. Turkey's role has been crucial in addressing the diplomatic impasse that followed Ethiopia's agreement with Somaliland, a breakaway region of Somalia.

The next round of negotiations between Somalia and Ethiopia is scheduled for September 2, 2024. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan will lead the talks.

During a media briefing last week, Hakan Fidan emphasised the importance of resolving tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia. He stated that Somalia is willing to offer Ethiopia access to the sea in exchange for Ethiopia's recognition and respect for Somalia's sovereignty. Fidan expressed optimism that an agreement could be reached that would end the current tensions, provided that Ethiopia acknowledges Somalia's territorial integrity and political sovereignty.