Leaders of Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia Convene to Address Regional Tensions
The leaders of Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia met in Asmara to discuss regional tensions, particularly following a maritime agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland that Somalia views as a violation of its sovereignty. The summit aimed to strengthen ties and address security issues in the volatile Horn of Africa, amidst ongoing rivalries and military collaborations.
On Thursday, the leaders of Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia convened for a pivotal three-way summit in Asmara against the backdrop of escalating tensions in the Horn of Africa. Reports indicate that concerns have intensified regarding security and stability in the region, particularly following a contentious maritime agreement signed in January by Ethiopia and the self-declared state of Somaliland. This agreement granted Somaliland access to the sea, inciting strong backlash from Somalia, which views it as a violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity. In attendance were Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, and Somalia’s Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. Following his arrival in Asmara, President Mohamud engaged in discussions with President Afwerki regarding the necessity of enhancing cooperation to safeguard Somalia’s sovereignty and national unity amidst its numerous challenges over the past twenty years. President al-Sisi’s visit marked his first to Eritrea, as he sought to strengthen ties with the nation and further discussions on stabilizing the Horn of Africa. His office has emphasized that the focus of this summit would be on promoting regional security and development, especially in light of ongoing tensions with Ethiopia. The memorandum of understanding between Ethiopia and Somaliland has further strained relations, propelling Somalia closer to Egypt. The two countries recently established a significant military agreement aimed at confronting security threats posed by the Al-Shabaab group. Additionally, President al-Sisi’s visit comes amid deteriorating relations between Ethiopia and Eritrea, despite their historical alliance during the Tigrayan conflict. Observers note that Eritrea remains displeased with the peace agreement reached between Ethiopia and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front. Further complications arose when Ethiopian Airlines announced the suspension of its flights to Asmara due to challenging operational circumstances. Eritrea, often referred to as the ‘North Korea of Africa,’ has been under the stringent rule of President Isaias since its independence in 1993 following a prolonged conflict with Ethiopia. Relations between Eritrea and Ethiopia saw a thaw in recent years, culminating in a peace agreement that garnered Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed the Nobel Peace Prize.
The Horn of Africa has been a region marked by political instability, particularly due to ongoing conflicts and territorial disputes. The recent maritime agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland has intensified existing tensions, as the move undermines Somalia’s authority, creating a rift among these neighboring nations. This summit aims to address these pressing issues as leaders seek to fortify their alliances amid a complex web of regional rivalries and security threats. Furthermore, the historical context of long-standing disputes and shifting allegiances in the region continues to influence current affairs and diplomatic relations.
In conclusion, the summit held among the leaders of Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia highlights the fragile state of affairs in the Horn of Africa. As rising rivalries and security concerns monopolize discussions, the three nations are focusing their efforts on fostering unity and enhancing their cooperative stance against external threats. The ongoing disputes, particularly with Ethiopia, alongside the evolving dynamics in the region underscore the critical need for constructive dialogue and proactive measures to ensure stability.
Original Source: www.france24.com
