Egypt has announced its participation in a new African Union peacekeeping force in Somalia, aimed at combating Al-Shabaab insurgents and bolstering ties with the Somali government amidst tensions with Ethiopia, particularly related to disputes over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.
On Monday, Egypt’s Foreign Minister, Badr Abdelatty, announced that Egypt will participate in a newly established African Union peacekeeping force in Somalia. This decision comes as a response to a request from the Somali government and has received support from the African Union Peace and Security Council. The move signifies a deepening of ties between Egypt and Somalia amidst rising tensions with Ethiopia, particularly following Ethiopia’s maritime agreement with Somaliland.
The formation of the new force, known as the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), is aimed at countering the Al-Shabaab insurgents, succeeding the current African Union Transition Mission in Somalia, which is set to conclude on December 31. Abdelatty reiterated Egypt’s commitment to Somalia’s sovereignty, stating that any actions undermining Somalia’s unity and security would not be tolerated.
In addition to military partnerships, diplomatic efforts have been made to enhance relationships in the region. Recently, a deal brokered by Turkey aimed at resolving tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia was described as a historic breakthrough, with significant support from the African Union and the international community. While Ethiopia’s troops are reportedly not included in the new peacekeeping force, Egypt’s involvement has been welcomed.
Cairo has fortified its military cooperation with Somalia, highlighted by a military deal signed during Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s visit to Egypt. Furthermore, regional meetings involving Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia represent a concerted effort to establish a new alliance that appears to sideline Ethiopia, particularly amid ongoing disputes over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.
Egypt’s Foreign Minister did not specify the details regarding the extent of Egypt’s engagement in the mission, although he emphasized the pursuit of a strategic partnership with Somalia.
The backdrop of Egypt’s involvement in the new African Union peacekeeping force lies in the complex dynamics of the Horn of Africa, particularly tensions with Ethiopia. The region has witnessed heightened conflicts, particularly regarding territorial and water rights, exacerbated by Ethiopia’s construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam. Egypt perceives this project as a direct threat to its water security. Additionally, the recent signing of a maritime agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland has intensified concerns in Somalia, prompting a strengthening of bonds between Cairo and Mogadishu.
In summary, Egypt’s commitment to join the African Union peacekeeping force in Somalia underscores its strategic interests in the Horn of Africa, particularly in countering the influence of Ethiopia and maintaining collaborative ties with Somalia. The evolution of military and diplomatic relations amidst regional tensions indicates a significant recalibration of alliances that could impact stability in the area. Egypt’s actions, framed within the context of safeguarding Somalia’s sovereignty and addressing common security threats, highlight the complexities of geopolitical maneuvering in the region.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
