Bahir Dar, Ethiopia — Somalia’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ali Omar, held talks with Ethiopian Foreign Minister, Gedion Timotheos Hessebon, on the sidelines of the Tana High-Level Forum, underscoring both nations’ shared commitment to deepening bilateral relations and advancing regional stability.
The meeting came at a crucial time when the Horn of Africa faces complex security and political challenges. The two ministers engaged in frank and constructive discussions on strengthening cooperation in peacebuilding, counterterrorism, and regional integration. They also exchanged views on the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) transition process, which is expected to succeed ATMIS as the AU’s security framework in Somalia.
Omar reaffirmed Somalia’s readiness to collaborate with neighboring countries that share its vision for a stable and peaceful region. He emphasized that partnership, mutual respect, and dialogue remain the cornerstone of Somalia’s foreign policy. The State Minister also noted that ongoing cooperation in countering terrorism is essential to safeguarding the region’s hard-won progress and preventing extremist groups from undermining peace efforts.
For his part, Hessebon expressed Ethiopia’s continued support for Somalia’s state-building journey and its fight against Al-Shabaab. He reiterated Ethiopia’s commitment to working closely with Somalia under the framework of AUSSOM and the African Union to ensure a smooth and effective transition that prioritizes Somali leadership and ownership.
The Tana High-Level Forum, which brings together African leaders, policymakers, and experts, provided an important platform for both countries to reaffirm their diplomatic engagement amid shifting regional dynamics. The cordial meeting between the two ministers signaled a willingness to rebuild trust and focus on collective security interests rooted in cooperation rather than confrontation.
Both sides agreed to maintain close communication and explore new avenues for collaboration in economic development and regional peace initiatives, marking a hopeful step toward renewed understanding between Mogadishu and Addis Ababa.