In an unprecedented summit in Asmara, leaders of Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia pledged to enhance regional security cooperation amidst escalating tensions in the Horn of Africa, particularly regarding the war in Sudan, a contentious deal involving Ethiopia and Somaliland, and threats by Houthi rebels. The meeting signifies the forging of a new alliance, sidelining Ethiopia, and highlights Somalia’s shift towards Cairo as it deepens military collaboration.
The leaders of Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia convened on Thursday at a significant summit in Asmara to enhance their collaboration concerning regional security amidst mounting tensions in the Horn of Africa. The meeting occurred in the context of various escalating issues, including the ongoing war in Sudan, a contentious maritime agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland, and threats posed by Yemeni Houthi rebels in the Red Sea region. During this summit, which notably excluded Ethiopia—the most populous country in Africa—the leaders expressed intentions to establish a new regional alliance. This alliance stems from escalating tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia, which responded to the Somaliland deal by gravitating towards Egypt, a traditional adversary of Ethiopia. Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki spearheaded the summit, joined by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. Following their discussions, a statement was published by the Eritrean information ministry affirming their commitment to strengthen trilateral relations to bolster regional stability. The leaders invoked the necessity for “unequivocal respect for the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity” of regional countries while refraining from naming specific nations. Additionally, they emphasized the importance of mitigating external interference in internal affairs and coordinating efforts for sustainable development. In regards to Somalia, the three leaders resolved to intensify cooperation aimed at enabling the Somali National Federal Army to effectively combat terrorism, safeguarding its land and maritime borders, and maintaining territorial integrity. They also addressed the ongoing crises in Sudan and the Red Sea while establishing a tripartite committee of foreign ministers to facilitate strategic cooperation across various sectors. This summit marked President Sisi’s inaugural visit to Asmara since taking office, reflective of a possible shift in regional alliances and political dynamics. The relations between Ethiopia and its neighbors have certainly soured in light of the January memorandum allowing Ethiopia to lease a coastline from Somaliland, an action seen by Somalia as a violation of its sovereignty. Somalia’s subsequent military agreement with Egypt highlights the evolving geopolitical landscape, especially considering the ongoing tensions surrounding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, which Cairo cites as a vital threat to its water supply. Despite Eritrea’s previous military backing of Ethiopian forces during the Tigray conflict, recent discord has emerged between them, particularly following the peace agreement between Ethiopia and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front. Although Ethiopian officials maintain that relations with Eritrea are currently “peaceful,” the complexities of regional rivalries remain evident.
The Horn of Africa is a region marked by intricate geopolitical dynamics and varying alliances, informed by historical rivalries and territorial disputes. In this landscape, Ethiopia, Somalia, and Eritrea have experienced fluctuating relationships, historically marred by conflict. Presently, the region is facing heightened instability due to wars, disagreements over maritime zones, and external influences from armed groups. Furthermore, Ethiopia’s controversial deal with Somaliland has drawn ire from Somalia, prompting closer ties between Somalia and Egypt as a counterbalance to Ethiopian influence. This summit appears to reflect a strategic pivot into a more cohesive alliance among these three nations as they navigate the complex realities of regional peace and security.
In summary, the recent summit in Asmara marks a pivotal step in enhancing trilateral relations between Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia amidst escalating tensions in the Horn of Africa. As the leaders seek to confront shared security challenges and foster cooperation, their collective stance against external interference and commitment to sovereignty underscores a new phase in regional politics. This shift, particularly at the expense of Ethiopia, signals potential changes in the power dynamics within the region that may have far-reaching implications for stability and development.
Original Source: www.modernghana.com
