Leaders of Egypt, Somalia, and Eritrea convened in Asmara to strengthen their alliance against Ethiopia, following rising tensions due to territorial concerns and disputes over resources. This coalition aims to pressure Ethiopia amid fears of potential conflict, as military collaboration between Egypt and Somalia increases. Past attempts at reconciliation between Ethiopia and Eritrea appear to have deteriorated, contributing to the evolving geopolitical landscape in the Horn of Africa.
In recent developments, the leaders of Egypt, Somalia, and Eritrea convened in Asmara, Eritrea, solidifying an alliance against Ethiopia, a nation with which all three countries share significant tensions. An official statement issued after the summit emphasized the importance of “respect for the sovereignty… and territorial integrity of the countries in the region”. Although Ethiopia was not explicitly named, the reference appears directed toward its aspiration for coastal access, a sensitive issue given its landlocked status. The diplomatic rift between Somalia and Ethiopia has drawn Somalia closer to Egypt and Eritrea, countries that have long-standing disputes with the Ethiopian government. Concerns have escalated regarding the potential for these rising tensions to culminate in conflict. According to Hassan Khannenje, Director of the Horn International Institute for Strategic Studies, this coalition represents a concerted effort to enhance pressure on the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa. President Isaias Afwerki of Eritrea, alongside Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, discussed initiatives to bolster Somali state institutions and empower the Somali National Federal Army to combat terrorism. Notably, this meeting marked President Sisi’s inaugural visit to Asmara, while the Somali president has visited three times this year. Ethiopia has historically supported the Somali government in its struggle against al-Shabab, an al-Qaeda-affiliated militant group. However, tensions have intensified due to an agreement Ethiopia struck earlier this year with the self-declared republic of Somaliland, which Somalia contends is part of its territory. Furthermore, Ethiopia and Egypt have been embroiled in disputes over the construction of a significant hydroelectric dam on the Nile River for over a decade, with Egypt expressing concerns about its implications for water supply. Military collaboration between Egypt and Somalia has also been evident, with recent shipments of military equipment and arms deliveries to Somalia underscoring this partnership. In 2018, there were optimistic prospects for improving relations between Ethiopia and Eritrea following a peace accord after two decades of conflict. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s signing of a “declaration of peace and friendship” with Eritrea earned him a Nobel Peace Prize. However, post-civil war tensions, particularly regarding Eritrea’s role during the recent conflict in Ethiopia’s Tigray region and Abiy’s intent to access a Red Sea port, have strained these relations anew.
The geopolitical landscape of the Horn of Africa is marked by intricate relationships and conflicts, particularly involving Ethiopia, Eritrea, Somalia, and Egypt. Historically, these nations have experienced a web of alliances and disputes, influenced by territorial integrity, water rights, and national sovereignty. The construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) has been a crucial factor heightening tensions between Ethiopia and Egypt, as the latter relies heavily on the Nile for its water supply. Additionally, Somalia’s claim over Somaliland complicates its relations with Ethiopia, particularly as Ethiopia seeks to establish a foothold along the coastline. The recent summit among the three nations reflects their collective discontent towards Ethiopia’s regional ambitions and signifies a potential shift in alliances that could affect stability across the region.
In summary, the recent summit in Asmara among the leaders of Egypt, Somalia, and Eritrea illustrates a strategic alignment against Ethiopia amidst ongoing territorial and resource disputes. As diplomatic relations in the Horn of Africa continue to evolve, the potential for increased tension and conflict remains a significant concern. This newly formed axis underscores the fragility of peace and the complexities of regional dynamics, especially considering the historical grievances and national interests at play.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
