In a significant move to strengthen bilateral relations, Ethiopia and Somalia have pledged to deepen their collaboration on critical areas of mutual interest, including security, economic growth, and regional stability.
This commitment was made in a joint statement issued on February 27, 2025, during a working visit to Mogadishu by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, where he was welcomed by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.
The joint statement underscores both nations’ commitment to combating shared security challenges, fostering trade and investment, and promoting peace in the Horn of Africa.
The visit marks a significant step in normalizing bilateral relations between the two countries, which have faced tensions in the past year, particularly over a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Ethiopia and breakaway Somaliland.
However, the Ankara Declaration signed in late 2024, mediated by Turkey, has helped mend the strained relations between the two countries.
The Declaration aims to foster constructive dialogue and cooperation between Ethiopia and Somalia, addressing both security and economic issues.
The leaders also welcomed the commencement of technical talks in Ankara, as agreed in the Ankara Declaration, which includes provisions for enhanced security cooperation between the Somali National Army (SNA) and the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF).
They expressed their commitment to implementing strategic infrastructure projects to ensure sustainable development and economic integration.
In their joint statement, both leaders emphasized the importance of building trust through enhanced diplomatic, economic, and social cooperation, recognizing the deep historical ties and shared border between their nations. “Ethiopia and Somalia are interdependent nations with a common destiny and a shared vision for regional stability and prosperity,” reads the joint statement.
