Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud met Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in Addis Ababa to discuss bilateral relations, regional security and stability in the Horn of Africa.
ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia (Somali Report) — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud made a one-day working visit to Ethiopia on Tuesday, meeting Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed for talks focused on bilateral relations and security in the Horn of Africa.
The meeting in Addis Ababa centred on strengthening the longstanding ties between Somalia and Ethiopia and expanding cooperation between the neighbouring countries, according to a statement on the visit.
Mohamud and Abiy Abiy also discussed political and security developments in the Horn of Africa, exchanging views on issues affecting peace and stability in the region.
The two leaders stressed the importance of regional cooperation and coordination, particularly efforts aimed at maintaining peace and stability in the Horn of Africa, the statement said.
Mohamud’s visit comes as Somalia and Ethiopia seek to deepen engagement on security and regional affairs, amid broader efforts by countries in the Horn of Africa to address shared security and economic challenges.
Somalia and Ethiopia have long maintained multifaceted relations covering security, trade, economic cooperation and regional diplomacy. Ethiopia is also one of the main troop-contributing countries to international security operations in Somalia.
Their security relationship has faced tensions in recent years, particularly after Ethiopia signed a January 2024 memorandum of understanding with Somaliland that Mogadishu said violated Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The dispute later eased after a December 2024 declaration signed in Ankara by Hassan and Abiy, which reaffirmed respect for Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
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The two countries have since sought to rebuild their relationship through diplomatic and security cooperation, while Ethiopia continues to play a role in international efforts to support Somalia’s security.
Hassan’s latest visit also comes as regional governments face persistent security threats and political disputes that have complicated efforts to strengthen cooperation across the Horn of Africa.
The Somali president’s office said the discussions with Abiy reflected the importance both governments attach to strengthening bilateral relations and cooperation on matters of shared interest.
The talks are also expected to reinforce coordination between Mogadishu and Addis Ababa on regional issues, including security and economic development.
Somalia and Ethiopia share a long border and extensive economic and security links, making their relationship significant to stability in the wider Horn of Africa.
Hassan Sheikh’s visit was limited to one day, with the Somali president returning after his discussions with the Ethiopian prime minister, according to the Somali presidency.
About the Author
Ahmed Omar is a senior journalist for Somali Report, based in Mogadishu. He has two decades of experience reporting on Somalia for international and local media. He covers politics, security, governance, business, trade, economic developments and regional affairs.
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