Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud visited Eritrea amid rising tensions in the Horn of Africa, particularly due to Ethiopia’s deal with Somaliland. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi is also visiting Eritrea to strengthen ties and promote regional stability. Both countries are responding to Ethiopia’s actions and looking to bolster military and diplomatic relations in light of growing disputes.
On Thursday, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia embarked on a three-day visit to Eritrea, a trip coordinated amid rising tensions in the Horn of Africa, particularly concerning the delicate nexus between Somalia and Ethiopia. Accompanying him was Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, and the visit was conducted at the invitation of Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki. Shortly afterward, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi was scheduled to arrive in Asmara, signaling a collaborative effort between the two nations as Egypt lends its support to Somalia in its ongoing disputes with Ethiopia. The backdrop to this diplomatic engagement arises from Ethiopia’s recent controversial agreement with Somaliland. This accord, which provides Somaliland with a maritime route, has incited fervent opposition from Somalia, given Somalia’s long-standing stance against Somaliland’s self-declared independence since 1991. In response to the escalating tensions, Somalia has fortified its partnership with Egypt, evidenced by a notable military agreement established in August of this year. This relationship is particularly pertinent as Egypt has historically had antagonistic relations with Ethiopia, particularly concerning the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, viewed by Cairo as a potential threat to its water resources. President Sisi’s upcoming discussions in Asmara are expected to revolve around enhancing relations with Eritrea while fostering regional stability in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea, emphasizing development initiatives that benefit the surrounding populace. Furthermore, the relationship between Ethiopia and Eritrea has soured despite prior collaborations, notably Eritrea’s military backing of Ethiopian forces during the 2020-2022 conflict against Tigrayan insurgents. Compounding these challenges, Ethiopian Airlines recently announced a cessation of flights to Eritrea, citing adverse operational conditions, indicating a further breakdown in relations. Eritrea, ruled firmly by President Isaias Afwerki since its independence from Ethiopia in 1993, remains a focal point of regional tensions, often compared to the reclusive regime of North Korea due to its autocratic governance.
The Horn of Africa has been a region marked by geopolitical complexity and ongoing strife, particularly concerning the relationships between Somalia, Ethiopia, and Eritrea. Each nation has its interests and historical grievances that complicate diplomatic relations. Somalia’s stance towards Somaliland, which declared independence in 1991, remains a critical point of contention. Eritrea’s past military alliances with Ethiopia and its evolving relationship with Somalia and Egypt highlight the intricate web of alliances in this tumultuous region. In recent years, tensions have spiraled, particularly with the signing of new agreements that alter the balance of territorial access and influence, prompting nations to reassess alliances and regional dynamics.
In summary, the visits of Presidents Mohamud and Sisi to Eritrea represent strategic maneuvers aimed at bolstering alliances and addressing pressing regional issues in the Horn of Africa. As Somalia fortifies its ties with Egypt in light of tensions with Ethiopia, the implications of these diplomatic engagements are critical for regional stability. Given the historical context and the recent shifts in agreements, these interactions will likely shape the socio-political landscape in Northeast Africa for the foreseeable future.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
