Djibouti has formally expressed concerns to Somalia over the increasing relationship between Somalia and Eritrea. President Guelleh has conveyed unease about Eritrean influence and questioned the conduct of a recent regional summit. Djibouti fears that this relationship could undermine its position in the region, exacerbating existing tensions.
Recent communications from sources affiliated with Villa Somalia and the Djiboutian government indicate that a formal complaint has been submitted to Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. This complaint arises following his recent interactions with Djibouti’s President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh, expressing concerns regarding the strengthening ties between Somalia and Eritrea.
President Guelleh has explicitly conveyed his apprehension regarding the growing influence of Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki stemming from Somalia’s cooperation. Moreover, he has questioned the rationale behind the recent tripartite summit held in Eritrea, attended by leaders from Somalia, Egypt, and Eritrea rather than being hosted in Mogadishu.
Djibouti and Eritrea have a history of strained relations, largely owing to unresolved territorial disputes, leading to years of ongoing tensions. Djibouti is increasingly alarmed that Somalia’s burgeoning relationship with Eritrea could further compromise its strategic position within the region.
Since the inauguration of Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, it appears that Somalia’s foreign policy decisions have introduced a measure of instability into its international relations, particularly with neighboring countries. The enhanced partnership with Eritrea is contributing to rising tensions between Somalia and Djibouti, as well as with Ethiopia.
Djibouti’s concerns reflect longstanding tensions with Eritrea and the perceived risks posed by Somalia’s increasing ties with Eritrea. This developing situation underscores the fragility of regional stability and highlights potential implications for international relations as Somalia navigates its foreign policy under President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. The outcomes of these dynamics may significantly influence the relationships among Djibouti, Eritrea, and their neighboring states.
Original Source: garoweonline.com
