Ethiopia and Somalia Mend Ties
Ethiopia has appointed a new ambassador to Somalia, Suleiman Dedefo, who recently presented his credentials to Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. This move signals a significant improvement in the relationship between the two nations.
The relationship had been strained by a dispute over Ethiopia's attempt to gain sea access through a deal with Somaliland, a region Somalia considers part of its sovereign territory. Somalia accused Ethiopia of violating its territorial integrity and, in April 2024, even expelled Ethiopia's previous ambassador.
Tensions eased thanks to mediation from Turkey. In December 2024, the two countries signed the Ankara Declaration, a Turkish-brokered agreement that helped de-escalate the conflict. This declaration set the stage for renewed dialogue and included a commitment to hold talks about Ethiopia’s search for sea access. The appointment of a new ambassador is a key step in this ongoing effort to restore normal relations.