Somalia and Ethiopia have announced plans to fully restore and enhance their bilateral relations, including the re-establishment of full diplomatic representation in each other’s capitals. This decision was reached during a high-level meeting in Addis Ababa between Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali.
In a joint communique released after the meeting, the leaders emphasized their commitment to strengthening ties, marking a significant shift following a year of diplomatic tensions. Last year, Somalia expelled two Ethiopian diplomats, including the ambassador, and ordered the closure of Ethiopian consulates in Hargeisa and Garowe. Despite these directives, both consulates remained operational.
The joint statement also highlighted the leaders’ mutual commitment to the Ankara Declaration, which was the agreement after mediation brokered by Turkey following the severance of ties between the two countries after the controversial MOU(between Ethiopia and Somaliland) fallout. The agreement underscored regional cooperation and solidarity. The two nations agreed to expedite technical negotiations outlined in the Declaration to address shared priorities and challenges.
President Mohamud and Prime Minister Abiy further expressed optimism about advancing the spirit of friendship and collaboration between the two neighboring countries. This agreement is seen as a pivotal step toward fostering stability, addressing regional issues, and improving diplomatic and economic relations in the Horn of Africa.
