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Ambassador Mohamed El-Amine Souef welcomes the restoration of diplomatic relations between Somalia and Ethiopia

MOGADISHU (SD)—Ambassador Mohamed El-Amine Souef, the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission for Somalia and Head of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), has welcomed the restoration of diplomatic relations between Somalia and Ethiopia, which were recently re-established.

This development was announced in a joint statement on January 11, following a meeting between Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.

The two leaders agreed to revive full diplomatic representation to strengthen ties between the two countries. Ambassador Souef described the agreement as significant, emphasizing its role in implementing the Ankara commitments. He underscored the importance of restoring diplomatic relations, enhancing security cooperation, and fostering economic integration to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.

Relations between Somalia and Ethiopia had deteriorated in April 2024 after Somalia expelled Ethiopia’s ambassador due to a dispute over Somaliland. The conflict stemmed from a memorandum of understanding that would allow Ethiopia access to a Somaliland port in exchange for supporting Somaliland’s independence. Tensions escalated until they were resolved in Ankara through Turkish mediation in December 2024.

The Ankara agreement was reached during negotiations hosted by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, with Somali and Ethiopian leaders in attendance.

The restoration of diplomatic ties between Somalia and Ethiopia is seen as a crucial step toward rebuilding trust, enhancing security, and fostering economic growth in the Horn of Africa.

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