Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed is set to arrive in Mogadishu today, Thursday, for a crucial diplomatic visit, as confirmed by reliable sources within Villa Somalia.
A high-level advance delegation from Addis Ababa has already landed in the Somali capital, engaging in extensive preparations for Abiy Ahmed’s official welcome.
Meanwhile, Somalia’s Minister of Internal Security, Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail (Fartaag), and the Governor of Banadir and Mayor of Mogadishu, Mohamed Ahmed Amir, conducted an overnight security inspection of key roads in the city. Their efforts aim to ensure that the prime minister’s reception meets the highest standards.
During his visit, Abiy Ahmed will hold discussions with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and other top federal officials. Their agenda includes critical topics related to bilateral relations and the recent agreements between the two nations.
According to informed sources within Villa Somalia, the leaders will continue discussions on the Ankara agreement, which helped de-escalate tensions over maritime issues. Ethiopia is currently seeking access to a seaport through negotiations with the Somali federal government.
Also, Abiy’s visit coincides with Ethiopia’s formalization of its military role in Somalia under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission (AUSSOM). Both nations signed a Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) in February, placing Ethiopian forces under Somali federal oversight. While Ethiopia has long maintained troops in Somalia as part of AU peacekeeping operations, Addis Ababa’s past unilateral military actions have strained relations.
With AUSSOM replacing the outgoing AU mission, Ethiopian forces are expected to remain in Somalia despite earlier threats from Mogadishu. The new framework seeks to ensure Ethiopian deployments align with Somalia’s security priorities, particularly in the fight against al-Shabaab militants.
Abiy’s visit comes shortly after President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud made two trips to Addis Ababa, where both leaders finalized the Ankara deal. The outcomes of these new talks could significantly shape the future of Somalia-Ethiopia relations.
