Somalia and Ethiopia have opened a new chapter in their relations after holding high-level talks to restore diplomatic ties that had been strained for over a year.
The Somali delegation, led by State Minister for Foreign Affairs Ali Mohamed Omar, met with Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs on the sidelines of the Tana High-Level Forum on Security in Africa on Saturday.
The discussions focused on rebuilding trust and strengthening cooperation on peace, security, and regional stability.
Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to joint efforts in counterterrorism, promoting regional peace, and supporting the African Union’s Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).
The renewed dialogue reflects growing momentum to re-establish normal relations after a period of tension that disrupted long-standing cooperation.
The talks come shortly after Somalia’s outgoing President made a brief visit to Addis Ababa, a symbolic gesture aimed at easing diplomatic strains and paving the way for deeper engagement.
Relations between the two nations soured in early 2024 when Ethiopia signed a controversial maritime deal with the self-declared Republic of Somaliland on January 1, granting it access to the Red Sea. Mogadishu strongly condemned the agreement, calling it an infringement on Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
However, earlier this year, both governments agreed to restore diplomatic representation, a move seen as a major step toward reconciliation.
The latest meeting underscores a renewed willingness to move beyond political differences and focus on shared priorities, including regional integration, trade, and cross-border security.
