Somalia's delegation visits Addis Ababa to strengthen ties under Ankara Declaration
By Mwangi Maina |
The visit follows a landmark agreement brokered by Turkey to diffuse tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia, marking a renewed commitment to cooperation and mutual respect.
Somalia's delegation, led by State Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Omar, has departed for Addis Ababa to advance bilateral ties under the Ankara Declaration, the government of Somalia has announced.
The visit follows a landmark agreement brokered by Turkey to diffuse tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia, marking a renewed commitment to cooperation and mutual respect.
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In a statement issued on Monday, Somalia's foreign ministry highlighted the significance of the visit, stating, "The visit underscores Somalia's unwavering commitment to deepening bilateral ties with Ethiopia as outlined in the Ankara Declaration forged by the leadership of both nations."
"The delegation will focus on exploring transformative opportunities to cultivate a partnership founded on mutual respect, common interest, and cooperation," the statement added.
Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan poses with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed following a press conference in Ankara, Turkey, December 11, 2024. (Photo: Murat Kula/Presidential Press Office/Handout via REUTERS)
This is the first significant engagement between officials of the two countries since the resolution of tensions facilitated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
The agreement reflects a shared commitment to peaceful dialogue and sustainable solutions for regional challenges.
The diplomatic tensions began in January when Ethiopia signed a controversial maritime deal with Somaliland, a region Somalia considers part of its territory.
The move triggered fears of a broader regional conflict, especially as Egypt has backed Somalia in opposition to Ethiopia's Nile River dam project.
Turkey's role in mediating this agreement underscores its growing influence in the Horn of Africa. With strong economic ties to Addis Ababa and robust security agreements with Mogadishu, Ankara has positioned itself as a key geopolitical player in the region.
The visit to Addis Ababa is expected to solidify these recent efforts and further advance the Ankara Declaration's vision of regional stability and cooperation.
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