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Somalia and Ethiopia have taken a major step toward rebuilding their diplomatic relationship after more than a year of tension. On Saturday, officials from both nations held talks aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and restoring trust that had been strained since early 2024.
The meeting brought together senior representatives from both governments on the sidelines of the Tana High-Level Forum on Security in Africa. The Somali delegation was led by the State Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hon. Ali Mohamed Omar, while Ethiopia was represented by its Minister of Foreign Affairs. The discussions focused on renewing cooperation between the two neighboring countries and emphasized the importance of peace, security, and mutual respect in the Horn of Africa.
During the talks, both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to improving diplomatic engagement and working together on issues of common interest. They agreed to deepen collaboration in combating terrorism and promoting stability in the region. The officials also highlighted the need to strengthen the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), which plays a crucial role in supporting security and rebuilding efforts in Somalia.
The meeting followed a recent visit by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to Ethiopia, signaling ongoing efforts to mend relations between Mogadishu and Addis Ababa. The visit, which took place just over a week ago, was seen as part of a broader push by both governments to restore normal diplomatic channels and rebuild confidence after a difficult period.
Tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia escalated sharply in early 2024 after Ethiopia signed a controversial maritime Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Somaliland, a self-declared republic that Somalia considers part of its territory. The deal, signed on January 1, 2024, granted Ethiopia access to the Red Sea through Somaliland’s Berbera port in exchange for potential recognition of Somaliland’s independence. Somalia viewed the move as a direct violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity, leading to a diplomatic fallout that saw Mogadishu sever ties with Addis Ababa.
In the months that followed, regional and international actors, including the African Union, encouraged dialogue between the two countries to de-escalate tensions and find common ground. Earlier this year, Somalia and Ethiopia agreed to restore diplomatic representation—a significant development that set the stage for the renewed talks held over the weekend.
Both governments have expressed optimism that the renewed engagement will pave the way for greater cooperation in economic development, cross-border security, and regional peace initiatives. The Horn of Africa, a region frequently affected by political instability, conflict, and terrorism, stands to benefit greatly from stronger collaboration between Somalia and Ethiopia—two of its most strategically important nations.
Analysts believe that the willingness of both sides to return to dialogue marks an important turning point. The discussions at the Tana Forum not only reflect a desire to rebuild trust but also a recognition that lasting peace and prosperity in the region depend on partnership, diplomacy, and mutual understanding.
As Somalia and Ethiopia move forward, both nations appear to be prioritizing stability and regional unity over past disputes. The latest talks signal cautious optimism that, through sustained diplomatic engagement, cooperation can replace conflict and the two countries can work together toward a more secure and prosperous Horn of Africa.