Wednesday February 28, 2024
Somalia President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud holds talks with President William Ruto upon arrival at State House Nairobi on February 28, 2024. Image: SHEIKH MUHAMUD/X
President Ruto expressed his stance on the ongoing territorial disputes between Somalia and Ethiopia on Wednesday, February 28, during a meeting at State House with Ethiopia's Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.
During the meeting, Ruto emphasised the importance of maintaining peace, security, and stability within the continent.
He highlighted these factors as crucial prerequisites for economic growth and development, aligning with universal aspirations.
Furthermore, Ruto and Abiy reaffirmed their commitment to recognising, respecting, and upholding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states.
The duo further agreed to reject unconstitutional changes of government as well as interference in the domestic political processes of African Countries by external interests.
Besides making his stand on the wrangles between the two states, Ruto also reaffirmed the government's commitment to enhance bilateral cooperation with Ethiopia in various economic sectors.
These sectors include trade and Investment, agriculture, fisheries, transport, ICT, tourism, health, culture and Forestry to meet national aspirations for socio-economic growth and also actualise Africa Union's Agenda 2063.
"More particularly, the meeting committed to revitalising the provisions of the Special Status Agreement of 2012, with a particular focus on trade and investment commitments," read part of a statement issued by President Ruto.
Abiy Ahmed's visit to Kenya occurs amidst ongoing confrontations between Ethiopia and Somalia concerning a dispute over the latter's breakaway territory.
Ethiopia's attempt to construct a naval base on Somalia's Red Sea coast via a memorandum of understanding was met with opposition, as Somalia declared the MoU null and void.
Similarly, Somalia recently accused Ethiopia of disrupting President Hassan Mohamud's delegation while he attempted to access the African Union summit venue in Ethiopia.
"Given that Ethiopia hosts the African Union headquarters, its leadership and government must treat all African leaders equally. Hosting the AU is both an honour and a privilege for Ethiopia," Somalia stated in a press statement.