Ethiopia, Somalia vow to strengthen cooperation for peaceful Horn of Africa

Addis Ababa, July 15, 2022 (FBC) – Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister, Demeke Mekonen, discussed with the Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Somalia, Balal Mohamed Osman.

Their discussion was made in Lusaka, Zambia on the margins of the 41st Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union Member States, focusing on bilateral issues and issues of peace and security in the Horn of Africa.

The Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister expressed delight that Somalia has held successful elections and formed its government.

He highlighted that the two countries should step up their efforts, particularly in the fight against terrorism, while noting the various areas in which the governments of the two countries should cooperate.

The acting foreign minister of Somalia, Balal Mohamed Osman, on his part, stated that the country’s new administration has given peace the topmost priority and that it would continue to cooperate with Ethiopia in this regard.

The minister pointed out that the partnership of the two countries should be strengthened in the efforts to destroy the Al-Shabaab terrorist group.

In order to further solidify relations between the two nations, an agreement has been reached to hold the bilateral joint commission meeting, which was postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.