Regional Tensions Prompt Somalia and Egypt Leaders to Engage in…

Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi visited Eritrea amid rising tensions in the Horn of Africa due to Ethiopia’s controversial maritime agreement with Somaliland. The leaders aim to discuss strengthening relationships and addressing regional issues, reflecting Somalia’s heightened cooperation with Egypt in light of historical conflicts with Ethiopia relating to water resources management.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia embarked on a diplomatic visit to Eritrea on Thursday, amidst escalating tensions in the Horn of Africa, notably between Somalia and Ethiopia. Accompanying him was Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, who recently reaffirmed Egypt’s support for Somalia in its ongoing dispute with Ethiopia. As stated by President Sisi’s office, he planned to arrive in Asmara later the same day. President Mohamud’s delegation included Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, and they were invited by Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki for a three-day visit. The discussions between the leaders are expected to focus on strengthening bilateral relations as well as addressing pertinent regional and international issues. The Horn of Africa is currently under increased scrutiny following Ethiopia’s controversial agreement with Somaliland, which grants the latter maritime access. This development has provoked significant backlash from Somalia, which has long refused to recognize Somaliland’s unilateral declaration of independence made in 1991. In retaliation, Somalia has sought to bolster its relationship with Egypt, culminating in a robust military agreement established in August. Egypt has historically been at odds with Ethiopia, particularly regarding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, which Egypt believes poses a risk to its vital water resources. The strategic visit of President Sisi to Asmara is intended to enhance relations with Eritrea and foster stability and security in the Horn of Africa and the broader Red Sea region. Notably, the relationship between Ethiopia and Eritrea has soured, despite Eritrean military support for Ethiopian forces during the prior Tigrayan conflict from 2020 to 2022. Recently, Ethiopian Airlines has ceased its flights to Asmara, citing adverse operating conditions. Eritrea, often described as the “North Korea of Africa,” has remained under the stringent control of President Isaias Afwerki since its independence from Ethiopia in 1993, following three decades of war.

The Horn of Africa is a region marked by complex geopolitical dynamics, particularly concerning the relationships between Somalia, Ethiopia, and Eritrea. Over the years, Somalia has grappled with instability and has consistently opposed Somaliland’s quest for independence. Recent developments, including Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland, have intensified these tensions, prompting Somalia to seek closer ties with Egypt, a country historically opposed to Ethiopian initiatives that it perceives as threats to its national interests, particularly regarding water resources from the Nile. Eritrea’s role remains contentious as it navigates its position in these shifting alliances while dealing with its internal governance issues under President Isaias Afwerki.

The diplomatic visits by Presidents Mohamud and Sisi to Eritrea highlight increasing regional tensions and the urgency for collaborative efforts among Horn of Africa nations to address mutual interests. Somalia’s strategic pivot towards Egypt in response to Ethiopia’s actions underscores the fragility of relationships in the region. As leaders convene, it is essential to prioritize stability and foster partnerships that benefit the peoples of their respective nations.

Original Source: newscentral.africa