Beijing(Mogadishu24)-High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell Fontelles, spoke with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who is attending the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing.

During their discussion, Borrell confirmed the European Union’s continued support for Somalia’s security transition and related duties.

“We agreed on the need to avoid regional tensions while fighting terrorism and preserving Somalia’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity,” Borrell said.

On its side, Villa Somalia issued a statement confirming the phone call, where President Mohamud expressed his gratitude for the EU’s long-standing support in combating terrorism and ensuring security in Somalia.

Both leaders emphasized the importance of the Somalia-EU partnership in promoting regional stability, peace, and prosperity.

This dialogue comes as tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia have heightened. The crisis follows Ethiopia’s controversial sea access deal with Somaliland, which has strained relations between the two countries despite two rounds of Turkey-brokered talks aimed at finding a resolution.