MOGADISHU, Somalia— Somalia’s defense minister visited an African Union mission base in the southwestern city of Baidoa on Tuesday, where he met with an Ethiopian commander and discussed ongoing security operations and military cooperation, officials said.
Defense Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi toured the headquarters of Sector 3 of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) and held talks with its commander, Brig. Gen. Teklu Hurisa Janka.
Fiqi was briefed on the unit’s activities, operational progress and coordination between Somali National Army forces and AUSSOM troops operating in South West State, according to a statement from the Ministry of Defense.
He praised the role of African Union forces in supporting Somali-led operations and efforts to improve security and stability.
The minister also stressed the need to strengthen joint offensives against militant groups and called on Ethiopian officers to enhance cooperation with Somali forces.
The visit is part of broader efforts by Somalia’s government to deepen ties with international partners, particularly AUSSOM, and accelerate gains in the fight against insurgents.
The federal government recently asserted full control over Baidoa and the wider South West State, an area where Ethiopia previously held significant political influence.
Officials say the visit underscores improving relations between Somalia and Ethiopia, following years of political tensions, as both countries move toward closer cooperation on security and regional stability.
