The presidents of Somalia, Eritrea, and Egypt convened in Asmara to bolster security cooperation amid rising regional tensions. They emphasized mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity and committed to joint efforts against terrorism. This alliance, while aimed at fostering stability, may raise concerns for Ethiopia due to its military presence in Somalia and ongoing disputes over regional projects.
In a significant meeting held in Asmara, the capitals of Eritrea, the leaders of Somalia, Eritrea, and Egypt have pledged to enhance cooperation for regional security. This agreement comes at a time when Somalia is grappling with the threats posed by the al-Shabab group. The summit, convened by Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki, included Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. In a joint statement released by the Eritrean information ministry, the leaders emphasized their commitment to strengthening ties and promoting regional stability while ensuring respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the nations in the area. They reiterated the necessity of collectively addressing foreign interference in internal affairs under any guise, coordinating efforts for regional stability, and fostering conditions suitable for sustainable development. With respect to Somalia’s ongoing battle against al-Shabab, the leaders underscored the need for heightened cooperation to tackle terrorism, safeguard national borders, and uphold territorial integrity. This security alliance, however, may provoke apprehension in Ethiopia, which has deployed thousands of troops in Somalia to combat al-Qaeda-associated factions. Ethiopia and Somalia’s relationship has soured over Somalia’s intentions to develop a port in the unrecognized region of Somaliland. Furthermore, in August, Somalia formalized a substantial military agreement with Egypt, which has committed to sending troops for a new African Union initiative targeting al-Shabab. The longstanding tensions between Egypt and Ethiopia, primarily linked to the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam on the Nile, have exacerbated regional strains. Eritrea, despite its historical alliance with Ethiopia during the Tigray conflict, has expressed frustration over its exclusion from subsequent peace negotiations with the Tigray People’s Liberation Front. Nevertheless, recent statements from Ethiopian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nebiat Getachew suggested that relations with Eritrea remain cordial, characterized by “good neighbourliness and good friendship.”
The Horn of Africa has been marked by significant geopolitical tensions, particularly involving Somalia, Ethiopia, and Eritrea. This region faces numerous challenges, including terrorist threats, internal conflicts, and contentious cross-border relations. Somalia is currently engaged in a struggle against the al-Shabab militant group, which has destabilized the country for years. The collaboration among Somalia, Eritrea, and Egypt is an attempt to enhance security and counterterrorism efforts while addressing regional stability amidst Ethiopia’s military involvement in Somalia and ongoing disputes over dam projects on the Nile.
The trilateral agreement among the leaders of Somalia, Eritrea, and Egypt highlights a strategic effort to enhance regional security and cooperation, particularly in the face of terrorism and foreign interference. While this alliance aims to provide a unified response to shared threats, it also risks igniting tensions with Ethiopia, which currently holds military interests and has historical disputes with both Somalia and Eritrea. The evolving dynamics in the Horn of Africa will require careful navigation by all involved parties to maintain stability and foster diplomatic relations.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
