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Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud arrived in Addis Ababa on Friday for a one-day working visit, where he held talks with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed aimed at strengthening ties between the two neighboring countries. The visit highlighted the continued importance of cooperation between Somalia and Ethiopia, especially at a time when the Horn of Africa is facing complex security and political challenges.
According to a statement from the Somali Presidency, the discussions focused on several key areas, including security cooperation, political engagement, trade relations, and broader regional issues. Both leaders emphasized the need for close coordination to address shared concerns that affect not only their two countries but also the wider region.
Security was a major focus of the talks, given the ongoing threats posed by extremist groups and instability in parts of the Horn of Africa. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed discussed the current security situation and explored ways Somalia and Ethiopia can work together more effectively to promote peace and stability. They acknowledged that insecurity in one country can easily affect its neighbors, making joint efforts essential for long-term regional safety.
The two leaders also spoke about the importance of political cooperation and open dialogue. They agreed that strong political relations built on trust and regular communication are necessary to resolve differences and prevent misunderstandings. Both sides stressed that respectful engagement between neighboring states helps create a stable environment where development and progress can take place.
Trade and economic cooperation were also part of the discussions. Somalia and Ethiopia share long-standing economic ties, and both leaders recognized the potential to expand trade in ways that benefit their citizens. Improving cross-border commerce, infrastructure links, and investment opportunities were seen as important steps toward boosting economic growth and improving livelihoods in both countries.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed underlined the importance of mutual respect and good neighborliness in all areas of cooperation. They emphasized that protecting each country’s sovereignty is a core principle of their relationship. The leaders agreed that genuine partnerships must be based on equality and respect, rather than pressure or interference, in order to be sustainable.
The talks also touched on regional affairs, with both leaders acknowledging that the Horn of Africa requires coordinated approaches to address shared challenges. Issues such as conflict, displacement, economic hardship, and climate-related pressures were seen as problems that no single country can solve alone. Working together, they said, can help build lasting solutions that promote stability and development across the region.
This diplomatic engagement comes at a time when Somalia is experiencing active political discussions at home. Somali opposition leaders are currently holding meetings in Kismayo, involving the Jubbaland and Puntland regional administrations. These talks are focused on national political issues, including the direction of Somalia’s state-building process and the future of governance in the country.
While the Addis Ababa visit focused on external relations, it takes place against this broader domestic political backdrop. The Somali government continues to engage with regional and international partners as it navigates internal political debates and ongoing security challenges. Observers see such diplomatic efforts as part of Somalia’s wider strategy to strengthen its position in the region and build constructive relationships with neighboring countries.
Overall, the meeting between President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed reaffirmed the commitment of Somalia and Ethiopia to work together on shared priorities. By focusing on security, political dialogue, trade, and regional cooperation, both leaders signaled their intention to deepen bilateral ties in a way that supports peace, stability, and development for their countries and the wider Horn of Africa.