Ethiopian PM Abiy Ahmed visits Somalia amid mortar attack

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's arrival in Mogadishu coincided with a mortar attack on the airport, likely by Al-Shabaab militants, just before he was welcomed by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. This visit marks a significant moment in the diplomatic relations between Ethiopia and Somalia, which have been strained due to Ethiopia's maritime ambitions and a prior controversial agreement with Somaliland. The leaders aim to discuss security cooperation and economic collaboration, reinforced by a newly signed Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) that places Ethiopian troops under Somali oversight as part of the African Union's Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia. The backdrop of heightened security measures during Abiy's visit reflects a commitment to stabilizing relations, particularly following the Ankara Declaration which emphasized mutual respect and Somalia's territorial integrity. Both nations are expected to negotiate technical details regarding Ethiopia's access to Somali ports, aiming for a resolution within four months. The discussions highlight a thawing of tensions and a focus on shared regional security interests.