Ethiopian PM Visits Somalia Amid Tensions Over Somaliland Deal

Ethiopian Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed arrived in Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu, on Thursday for talks with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, aimed at reaffirming bilateral ties.

Tensions between the two neighbouring countries escalated last year after landlocked Ethiopia signed a controversial deal to lease a stretch of coastline from Somaliland, a breakaway region of Somalia. Under the agreement, Ethiopia planned to build a naval base and commercial port in exchange for potential recognition of Somaliland’s independence.

The deal sparked outrage in Mogadishu, which accused Addis Ababa of violating Somalia’s territorial integrity. In December, Turkey mediated discussions between the two nations, leading to a pledge to find a diplomatic solution for Ethiopia’s access to the sea. Mohamud later visited Ethiopia in early 2025 as part of ongoing negotiations.

Thursday’s discussions covered a range of bilateral issues, including trade and security, as both leaders sought to mend relations. The visit comes amid continued regional instability, with Somalia facing persistent threats from the Islamist militant group al-Shabaab.

Shortly before Abiy’s arrival, mortar shells were fired in Mogadishu, though it remains unclear whether the attack was linked to his visit. Somali security forces have not reported any casualties.

Despite tensions, the meeting signals efforts to ease diplomatic strains and find common ground on Ethiopia’s maritime ambitions while preserving Somalia’s sovereignty.

Africanews/Patience Ameh