ADDIS ABABA — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud arrived in Ethiopia’s capital on Sunday for high-level talks with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, in a visit aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and deepening cooperation on security, trade, and regional stability in the Horn of Africa.
The Somali president was received by Ethiopian officials upon arrival, according to state media and diplomatic sources. The talks are expected to take place at the Prime Minister’s office in Addis Ababa.
Officials from both sides said the discussions will focus on a wide range of issues, including counterterrorism cooperation, border security management, economic integration, and the implementation of previous understandings between the two countries.
The visit comes at a time when Somalia and Ethiopia are seeking to stabilize relations after periods of political tension linked to regional security arrangements and competing interests in the Horn of Africa. Diplomatic engagement between Mogadishu and Addis Ababa has intensified in recent months, with both governments expressing interest in strengthening cooperation on shared security threats, particularly militant insurgencies operating across the region.
Somali authorities have repeatedly emphasized the importance of regional partnerships in combating extremist groups and improving stability in border areas. Ethiopia, which plays a key role in regional peace and security efforts, has also highlighted the need for coordinated action among neighboring states.
Analysts say the talks may also address economic cooperation, including trade routes, infrastructure development, and regional connectivity projects aimed at improving commerce between the two countries and the wider East African region.
Although no official agenda has been released in detail, diplomatic sources suggest that the leaders may also discuss migration management and regional integration frameworks under the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD).
The Somali presidency has described the visit as part of ongoing efforts to “strengthen strategic relations with neighboring countries and promote regional stability.”
A joint statement is expected after the conclusion of the talks, outlining any agreements or areas of cooperation reached between the two leaders.
