Leaders from Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia convened in Asmara to discuss regional security amid escalating tensions following Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland, which Somalia deems a threat to its sovereignty. The discussions focused on strengthening ties and addressing security concerns as Somalia strengthens alliances, particularly with Egypt.
On Thursday, the leaders of Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia convened for a trilateral summit in Asmara amidst escalating tensions within the Horn of Africa. The summit occurred against the backdrop of rising concerns over regional security since Ethiopia signed a contentious agreement with the self-declared independent region of Somaliland, facilitating its access to maritime resources, an action that has provoked Somalia’s ire and escalated regional rivalries. Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud met to discuss strengthening diplomatic relations and addressing security issues affecting the region. Following his arrival late on Wednesday, President Mohamud engaged in talks with President Isaias focusing on fortifying cooperation necessary for safeguarding Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, which are paramount for the nation’s development amid ongoing challenges. President Sisi’s visit marks his inaugural trip to Eritrea, where he is expected to enhance bilateral ties and engage in discussions centered on stabilizing the Horn of Africa, addressing security concerns, and promoting development beneficial to the peoples of the region. Moreover, Sisi’s government aligns with Somalia amid its disputes with Ethiopia regarding Somaliland’s independence claims, which Mogadishu views as an infringement upon its sovereignty. In the agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland, Ethiopia, which remains landlocked, has proposed to lease coastal territory for naval and port facilities—a move Somalia categorically opposes. To counterbalance Ethiopia’s growing influence, Somalia has increasingly allied with Egypt, which recently pledged military assistance to Somalia to confront the Al-Shabaab terrorist group, further exemplifying the deterioration of relations between Somalia and Ethiopia, particularly over the contentious Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam affecting Egypt’s access to vital water resources.
The geopolitical landscape of the Horn of Africa has been increasingly tenuous, particularly following Ethiopia’s controversial maritime agreement with Somaliland, which is not recognized by Somalia or by the international community. This development has led to heightened tensions between Ethiopia and its neighbors, particularly Somalia, which has reacted by solidifying ties with Egypt. The region has a complex history marked by conflict, and the recent diplomatic engagements aim to mitigate security challenges posed by various militant groups and territorial disputes, including the unresolved issues stemming from Somaliland’s declaration of independence. Egypt’s historical anxieties regarding Ethiopian water policies further complicate the relationship amongst these states, as Cairo endeavors to protect its water interests in the Nile River basin amid Ethiopia’s ambitious dam projects.
In conclusion, the summit between the leaders of Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia reflects the urgent need for collaboration to address the escalating tensions in the Horn of Africa. The meeting underscored the significance of sovereignty and territorial integrity for Somalia while also spotlighting the growing rift between Ethiopia and its neighbors. As these nations navigate their complex relations, their diplomatic efforts will be crucial in establishing a framework for regional stability and security, particularly against the backdrop of persistent regional threats.
Original Source: www.france24.com
