Egypt Enhances Regional Influence through Alliances with Somalia and Eritrea
Egypt has strengthened its influence in the Horn of Africa by forming alliances with Somalia and Eritrea, highlighted by a summit with their leaders. This coalition aims to counteract Ethiopia amidst accusations of Egyptian military involvement in Sudan. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed firmly opposed these actions, emphasizing Ethiopia’s commitment to its sovereignty.
Egypt has intensified its strategic presence in the Horn of Africa by forging alliances with Somalia and Eritrea. This development follows the participation of Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi in a tripartite summit held in Asmara, joined by Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. This summit not only aims to bolster their influence in the region but also seeks to establish a coalition against Ethiopia. The urgency of this meeting is underscored by the backdrop of conflict in Sudan, where accusations have arisen against Cairo by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, commander of the Rapid Support Forces, for alleged military intervention, highlighting Egypt’s increasing involvement in regional conflicts. This shift indicates Egypt’s resolve to play a more assertive role in the area, aligning itself with the Sudanese army leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan despite participating in international mediation efforts. The summit reflects rising regional tensions, particularly considering Egypt’s strengthening military ties with Somalia in the wake of Ethiopia’s recent agreements with Somaliland, which include access to a port and naval base in the southern Red Sea. The Eritrean government’s brief statement regarding the summit’s purpose included discussing the enhancement of relations among the three countries, addressing regional security, and stability concerns. However, it is widely perceived that the real aim is to counter Ethiopia’s influence. In response, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has vocally opposed Egypt’s maneuvers, asserting that Ethiopia will defend its sovereignty against any perceived threats. He stated, “We will not allow them to harm us, we will humiliate anyone who dares to threaten us to deter them,” emphasizing Ethiopia’s commitment to safeguarding its territorial integrity. As Egypt asserts its role in Africa’s crises, its diplomatic calculus continues to evolve. Notably, the Sudanese conflict remains a focal point of Egyptian diplomacy, where it seeks to end hostilities and engage neighboring nations in political solutions. Experts underscore that Egypt’s opposition to armed groups acting outside state authority stems from its concerns over regional security implications.
The strategic dynamics of the Horn of Africa and the southern Red Sea region have become increasingly complex, with multiple nations vying for influence. Egypt’s pivotal role has been redefined amidst conflicts in Sudan and the tensions with Ethiopia over various geopolitical interests. The alliance with Somalia and Eritrea can be interpreted as a maneuver to counter Ethiopia’s growing power, particularly following Ethiopia’s recent militaristic agreements in the region. Such alliances reflect broader patterns of military and diplomatic realignments in response to perceived threats and regional instability.
In conclusion, Egypt’s recent diplomatic actions signify a deliberate strategy to enhance its influence in the Horn of Africa, challenging Ethiopia’s regional dominance. Through alliances with Somalia and Eritrea, coupled with a more assertive military posture, Egypt aims to safeguard its interests amid rising regional tensions. The intricate balance of power in this geopolitically sensitive area will inevitably continue to evolve, influenced by these developments and the responses of local and international actors.
Original Source: www.atalayar.com
