Somalia Ready to Negotiate with Ethiopia Amid Rift

Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud stated that Somalia is ready to engage in talks with Ethiopia regarding economic cooperation and stability, despite increasing tensions between the two countries. The recent deal between Somalia and Somaliland has intensified hostilities. President Mohamud emphasized that cooperation with Ethiopia must respect Somalia’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, in accordance with international law. Turkey is mediating the next round of talks, which are scheduled to take place earlier than expected in Ankara. Ethiopia seeks access to the sea through Somaliland in exchange for recognizing its independence.