Ethiopia, Somalia Agreement Cement Regional ties: IGAD

Addis Ababa, January 25, 2025 (ENA)--The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) in Eastern Africa has commended that the recent agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia is crucial to forge the comprehensive ties among regional countries.

In an exclusive interview with ENA, Commander Abebe Muluneh, Head of the Peace and Security Division of IGAD, highlighted that the agreement strengthens the overall relations among countries in the region.

The commander recalled the Ankara agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia is seen as a catalyst for stronger regional cooperation in the Horn of Africa and following the agreement, senior leaders from both countries have undertaken visits to enhance their bilateral cooperation.

He also expressed the agreement holds significant benefits for the region with positive impact on both economic and political relations.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud also praised the joint meeting held in Addis Ababa, describing it as a step toward strengthening regional ties.

The commander further explained that the agreement would enhance economic and political collaboration; particularly through peaceful dialogue between the two nations and this agreement of restoring diplomatic relations and continued dialogue have helped resolve previous differences between the two countries.

He underscored the importance of peace for the region’s development, urging regional countries to collaborate on ensuring stability and security.

Abebe also stressed mutual relations should be founded on trust, benefit, and the shared goal of internal stability and urging regional countries to prevent external interference and focus on internal matters, with the understanding that this will contribute to regional harmony.

He also urged Ethiopia and its neighboring countries to further reduce foreign interference, taking responsibility for their geopolitical and strategic importance.