Ethiopian Defense Minister's Pivotal Visit to Somalia

Ethiopian Defense Minister Aisha Mohammed Mussa visited Somalia in the first such trip since Ethiopia's naval base plan sparked a diplomatic rift. Ethiopia and Somalia aim to resolve their differences after a year of tension surrounding Somaliland, an autonomously governed region seeking potential independence recognition.

Ethiopian Defense Minister Aisha Mohammed Mussa arrived in Somalia for a significant visit, marking the first bilateral meeting since relations soured due to Ethiopia's controversial plan to establish a naval base in Somaliland.

The plan caused tension as Somalia considers Somaliland part of its territory, while Ethiopia had struck a deal for naval and commercial use with Somaliland.

This visit follows an agreement in Turkey aimed at resolving disputes and commencing technical negotiations, raising hopes for regional stability amid fears of weakening efforts against the militant group al Shabaab.

(With inputs from agencies.)