Eritrea, Egypt, and Somalia have solidified an alliance against Ethiopia during a recent summit in Asmara. The discussions reflected ongoing grievances against Ethiopia, particularly regarding disputes over territory and military cooperation. Leaders indicated a commitment to enhancing Somali institutions to deal with various challenges while also signaling potential military escalations in the region.
The leaders of Eritrea, Egypt, and Somalia convened in Asmara, marking a significant alignment against Ethiopia. A conclusion from the summit emphasized the “respect for the sovereignty… and territorial integrity of the countries in the region,” likely alluding to Ethiopia’s aspirations for access to a coastline without explicitly naming the nation. Somalia’s recent diplomatic crisis has catalyzed deeper relations with Egypt and Eritrea, both of which have longstanding grievances against Ethiopia. Concerns about escalating tensions leading to potential conflict have been voiced. Hassan Khannenje, the director of the Horn International Institute for Strategic Studies, remarked, “This is an axis against [Ethiopian capital] Addis Ababa. I think it’s an attempt to bring the hate together in trying to increase pressure against Addis Ababa.” Photographs from the meeting depict Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki in a handshake with Egyptian President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. They collectively pledged to bolster Somali state institutions to tackle internal and external challenges and enhance the Somali National Federal Army’s capability against terrorism. President Sisi, making his inaugural visit to Asmara, joined a Somali leader who has visited three times this year. Ethiopia has historically supported Somalia in its struggle against the militant group al-Shabab, yet tensions rose after Ethiopia signed a preliminary agreement with Somaliland regarding leasing part of its coastline, which Somalia claims as its territory. Additionally, the prolonged dispute between Addis Ababa and Cairo revolves around Ethiopia’s construction of a hydroelectric dam on the Nile River, seen by Egypt as a potential threat to its water supply. A recent arms delivery from Egypt to Somalia, including military equipment aboard an Egyptian ship and two military aircraft, underscores the growing military cooperation among these nations. In 2018, peace seemed achievable between Ethiopia and Eritrea when Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed signed a “declaration of peace and friendship,” earning him the Nobel Peace Prize the following year. However, relations have soured, particularly after the civil war in Ethiopia’s northern Tigray region and following Prime Minister Abiy’s announcement regarding port access on the Red Sea. This summit appears to reinforce a strategic alignment among Eritrea, Egypt, and Somalia, positioning them in direct opposition to Ethiopia amid escalating regional tensions.
The article discusses the recent meeting of leaders from Eritrea, Egypt, and Somalia in Asmara, highlighting their collective response to Ethiopia’s expanding regional influence and ongoing territorial disputes. It provides insight into the historical context of relations among these nations, mentioning past agreements and recent shifts that have adversely affected Ethiopia’s diplomatic standing. The article also emphasizes the significance of military cooperation between Egypt and Somalia as a reaction to Ethiopia’s actions, particularly concerning territorial claims and resource management disputes over the Nile River.
The alignment of Eritrea, Egypt, and Somalia marks a notable shift in regional geopolitics, as these nations increasingly coordinate their efforts against Ethiopia. The summit underscores longstanding grievances and highlights potential escalations into conflict if diplomatic tensions continue to rise. The cooperative stance taken by these leaders reflects deepening military and strategic ties, suggesting a challenging period ahead for Ethiopia in the Horn of Africa.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
