Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia was warmly received by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali on the sidelines of the Second United Nations Food Systems Summit, which kicked off in Addis Ababa this week.
The two leaders held bilateral talks focused on deepening diplomatic relations and enhancing regional cooperation, particularly in the areas of food security, trade, and infrastructure development. The meeting marks a significant step in thawing tensions and advancing mutual interests amid broader regional challenges.
President Mohamud and Prime Minister Abiy emphasized the importance of working together to address pressing food system challenges facing the Horn of Africa, including climate shocks, supply disruptions, and humanitarian needs. The leaders expressed commitment to collaborative solutions through the African Union and the UN framework.
The summit, hosted by Ethiopia under the theme “Transforming Food Systems for Sustainable Development,” brings together heads of state, ministers, and global experts to review progress since the inaugural 2021 Food Systems Summit. Somalia’s participation underscores its commitment to achieving food security and building resilience among its vulnerable communities.
This high-level engagement between Somalia and Ethiopia comes amid efforts by both nations to recalibrate their bilateral relations and cooperate more closely on regional priorities, including counter-terrorism and climate resilience.
President Mohamud is also expected to meet other African and global leaders during the summit to advocate for increased investment in Somalia’s agriculture, fisheries, and rural development sectors.