Ethiopia and Somalia have reached an agreement to collaborate on the multinational force combating Islamist insurgents, marking a significant step towards easing diplomatic tensions between the two neighboring nations.
During high-level talks in Mogadishu on Thursday, senior officials from both countries pledged to enhance cooperation on the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission and strengthen bilateral relations.
Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the agreement in a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday, though specific details of the collaboration were not disclosed.
Historically, Ethiopia has been a key contributor to Somalia’s stability, with 3,000 soldiers deployed under the African Union peacekeeping mission and an additional 7,000 troops stationed through a separate bilateral agreement.
The recent agreement comes after a period of strained relations, primarily stemming from Ethiopia’s proposal to recognize Somaliland—a breakaway region in northern Somalia—in exchange for access to a port in the semi-autonomous territory.
The diplomatic discussions coincided with Somalia’s assumption of its role as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, marking the country’s return to the global diplomatic stage after a 54-year absence.
Both nations have expressed optimism that the renewed cooperation will strengthen regional security and foster long-term stability in the Horn of Africa.
