In the Somali capital, Mogadishu, extensive preparations and heightened security measures are being implemented ahead of Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali’s scheduled visit on Thursday.
Officials have informed journalists that security forces are on high alert to ensure the visit proceeds smoothly and without incident.
The visit is seen as a significant diplomatic engagement, reflecting ongoing efforts to strengthen ties between Somalia and Ethiopia.
Further details about the agenda and outcomes of the visit are expected to be released in the coming hours.
PM Ahmed will be visiting Somalia officially for the first time since his country signed a controversial seaport deal with Somaliland in January 2024.
That Ethiopia-Somaliland agreement caused a huge diplomatic tiff with Somalia that often threatened to descend into a full-fledged war.
However, the last few months saw Türkiye mediate successful talks in Ankara between the two neighboring Horn of Africa nations that led to a restoration of diplomatic ties.