Somalia’s Defense Minister, Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur Jama, has expressed appreciation for the Ethiopian Defense Forces for their “sacrifices and contributions” in maintaining peace and stability in Somalia, despite a history of diplomatic tensions between the two nations. This marks a notable shift in Somalia’s stance toward Ethiopia, with the Minister previously referring to Ethiopia as Somalia’s “number one enemy.”
The tensions stemmed from a 2024 agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland, in which Ethiopia recognized Somaliland’s self-declared independence in exchange for access to the Red Sea. Somalia rejected the deal, deeming it legally invalid and viewing it as a threat to its territorial integrity.
However, recent diplomatic engagements have paved the way for a thaw in relations. In early January, Ethiopian and Somali officials reiterated their shared commitment to ensuring peace and stability in Somalia and the broader region. This came during a high-level Ethiopian delegation’s official visit to Somalia, led by Ethiopian Minister of Defense Aisha Mohammed. During the visit, the delegation held fruitful discussions with Somali officials, including President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. These discussions reaffirmed both countries’ dedication to collaboration for peace and regional stability.
Following the visit, both nations emphasized their intention to strengthen bilateral relations and collaborate on the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia. They also agreed to increase exchanges of visits and official discussions to further reinforce their partnership.
Ethiopia’s Defense Minister reiterated the country’s commitment to contributing to Somalia’s peace and security, stressing the importance of continued cooperation between the two Horn of Africa nations. Somali Minister of Defense Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur acknowledged Ethiopia’s significant role, expressing his gratitude for the Ethiopian Defense Forces’ efforts toward peace in Somalia.
The evolving diplomatic landscape between Ethiopia and Somalia follows months of rising tensions, which began after the Ethiopia-Somaliland agreement. Despite these previous misunderstandings, both countries have now pledged to work together to finalize arrangements that would ensure Ethiopia’s access to the sea, marking a significant breakthrough in the ongoing efforts to resolve the disputes.
Both leaders, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Mohamud, issued a joint statement highlighting their mutual respect for each other’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, emphasizing the need for continued cooperation and dialogue to secure regional peace.