The AU mission applauds the Somalia-Ethiopia agreement to deepen relations

The recent agreement between Somalia and Ethiopia to reinstate diplomatic representation in their respective capitals following over a year of tense relations was hailed Monday by the African Union (AU) mission in Somalia.

The discussions between Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, according to Mohamed El-Amine Souef, special representative of the chairperson of the AU Commission for Somalia and head of the AU Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), reaffirmed long-standing pledges made in Turkey, where they initially decided to repair tense relations that had heightened tensions in the Eastern Africa region.

“AUSSOM remains committed to supporting Somalia’s stabilization efforts and regional partnerships, in alignment with the aspirations of the Somali people and the AU’s vision for a peaceful and prosperous Africa,” Souef said inside a statement released in Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu.

In their discussions on Saturday, the two presidents emphasized the need of their diplomatic missions working together more closely on regional and multilateral issues of shared interest. They also promised to increase cooperation in order to improve regional ties and promote mutual understanding and advancement.

An “important milestone” in bilateral ties, according to Souef, was reached. He emphasized the importance of the increased emphasis on fostering economic integration, bolstering security cooperation, and improving diplomatic ties—all of which are essential for furthering regional peace, stability, and shared prosperity.

Ethiopia reached a deal with Somaliland, a self-declared part of Somalia, in January 2024 to provide Ethiopia access to the Red Sea port of Berbera in exchange for Somaliland’s recognition as an independent country. This arrangement sparked a diplomatic dispute between the two nations. Somalia saw the action as an infringement on its sovereignty and territorial integrity.