Eritrea delegation arrives in Somalia for landmark talks

MOGADISHU, Somalia - A high-level Eritrean delegation arrived in Somalia on Saturday for talks on bilateral relations between the two Horn of Africa countries, Garowe Online reports.

The delegation led by foreign minister Osman Saleh was received by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Somalia Ahmed Awad at Mogadishu's Aden Adde International airport.

Those accompanying the Eritrean's foreign minister include President Isaias Afwerki's right-hand man Yemane Gebreab.

"President Farmajo met with Eritrean FM Osman Saleh and Presidential Advisor Yemane Gabreab at the Villa Somalia and discussed strengthening bilateral ties between two brotherly countries, regional economic integration and the recent visit of Eritrean delegation to Somaliland Admin," said Villa Somalia.

The office of President Farmajo did not disclose the exact reason behind Saleh's visit.

It is the second time in more than two decades that a top-level delegation from Asmara visits Mogadishu since last year after the two nations restored their long-absence diplomatic relations.

The visit comes weeks after Eritrean foreign minister, along with Presidential Adviser, Yemane Gebreab paid an expected trip to Somalia's northern breakaway region, Somaliland and held talks with Muse Bihi.

GAROWE ONLINE