Southwest, Somalia – Southwest State President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen met with Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Somalia, Suleiman Dedefo, on Wednesday in Mogadishu to reaffirm cooperation between the two neighbors on security, trade, and community relations.
The talks, held against the backdrop of evolving regional dynamics, were described as cordial and forward-looking. According to a statement issued by the Southwest State administration, both leaders underscored the importance of collaboration in addressing shared challenges—including cross-border security threats and economic interdependence.
Amb. Dedefo reiterated Ethiopia’s continued support to Southwest State and Somalia at large, expressing his government’s readiness to deepen engagement in key sectors. President Laftagareen, for his part, welcomed the pledge and highlighted the longstanding social and economic links between communities on both sides of the border.
While no specific agreements were publicly announced, the tone of the meeting suggested a mutual desire to maintain open channels amid shifting geopolitical currents in the Horn of Africa. Officials hinted that follow-up discussions would explore practical mechanisms for implementing joint initiatives.
The gathering adds to a series of diplomatic exchanges in Mogadishu in recent weeks, signaling renewed momentum in Somalia’s regional outreach. For residents of Southwest State—many of whom rely on cross-border trade and labor movement—the meeting offers cautious optimism that stability and economic opportunity may benefit from strengthened state-to-state engagement.