ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia — In a pivotal meeting aimed at addressing regional security and cooperation, Jubbaland’s Vice President, Mohamud Sayid Aden, engaged in discussions with Ethiopia’s Army Commander-in-Chief, General Birhanu Jula, in Addis Ababa.

The dialogue occurred against the backdrop of heightened tensions following reports of Ethiopian military aircraft delivering arms to Kismayo, an act that the Somali government has publicly condemned as “unacceptable.”

This engagement followed the recent Ankara Declaration, where Somalia and Ethiopia reaffirmed commitments to mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. The declaration was seen as a significant step towards repairing strained ties and enhancing regional collaboration.

An official statement highlighted the focus of the discussions, which revolved around critical security priorities. These included improving coordination on border movements, formulating strategies to reclaim key towns in Jubbaland from Al-Shabaab militants, and exploring avenues to strengthen joint efforts for lasting peace and stability in the region.

The meeting underscored the shared challenges facing Somalia and Ethiopia and the importance of cooperation to counter threats, stabilize the region, and promote development.