The African Union Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) has welcomed the agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia to fully restore diplomatic relations, following discussions between Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in Addis Ababa on 11 January 2025.
In a statement, Ambassador Mohamed El-Amine Souef, Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC) for Somalia and Head of AUSSOM, described the agreement as “an important milestone in bilateral relations” and a reaffirmation of commitments made under the Ankara Declaration.
Ambassador Souef noted the significance of “enhancing diplomatic ties, strengthening security cooperation, and promoting economic integration” as essential steps for advancing “regional peace, stability, and shared prosperity.”
He stated that AUSSOM “remains committed to supporting Somalia’s stabilization efforts and regional partnerships,” aligning with the aspirations of the Somali people and the African Union’s vision for a peaceful and prosperous continent.
The agreement, outlined in a joint communiqué issued on 11 January, 2025, announced the decision to “restore and enhance their bilateral relations through full diplomatic representation in their respective capitals.” It also stressed the need for “closer cooperation in multilateral and regional forums to address matters of mutual interest.”
The communiqué also highlighted security concerns, stating, “The stability of the region requires strong cooperation between the two countries.” Both leaders agreed to direct their respective security agencies to “bolster cooperation in addressing the serious and evolving threat posed by extremist militant groups.”
The restoration of ties comes after a year-long diplomatic hiatus, which followed tensions over Ethiopia’s Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Somaliland. The MoU, which sought to grant Ethiopia sea access in exchange for potential recognition of Somaliland, had strained relations between Addis Abeba and Mogadishu.
At the time, Somalia announced that Ethiopia’s Ambassador Muktar Mohamed Ware “has been informed to depart from Somalia within the next 72 hours.” Somalia also recalled its Ambassador to Addis Abeba for “comprehensive consultations.”
In October 2024, the Somali Ministry of Foreign Affairs declared an Ethiopian diplomat persona non grata, ordering his departure within 72 hours, citing his “engagement in activities inconsistent with his diplomatic role.”
However, the Ankara Agreement, facilitated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, helped defuse tensions and create a framework for renewed engagement.
This latest development, following the Ankara Agreement, saw, among other steps, Somalia reverse its previous decision that Ethiopia “will not be part of the AU-led forces” replacing ATMIS.