Eritrea, Egypt, and Somalia Forge Alliance Against Ethiopia
The leaders of Egypt, Somalia, and Eritrea convened in Asmara, signaling a potential alliance aimed at countering Ethiopia’s regional ambitions. Statements made during the summit raise concerns about escalating tensions, particularly in light of Ethiopia’s aspirations for seaport access and its controversial dealings with Somaliland. While Somalia’s government publicly distances itself from hostile intentions against Ethiopia, the backdrop of conflicting interests amid a growing military cooperation between Somalia and Egypt complicates the situation.
The recent summit held in Asmara by the leaders of Egypt, Somalia, and Eritrea marks a significant moment amidst their strained relations with Ethiopia. The Eritrean Official Statement concluded by emphasizing the importance of “respect for the sovereignty… and territorial integrity of the countries in the region,” a statement that suggests a focus on Ethiopia’s aspirations for maritime access, even as Ethiopia was not directly named in their discussions. Somalia’s closer alignment with Egypt and Eritrea follows a recent diplomatic contention, indicating a shift towards solidifying an alliance that raises concerns regarding potential regional conflicts. Hassan Khannenje, the director of the Horn International Institute for Strategic Studies, remarked, “This is an axis against [Ethiopian capital] Addis Ababa. I think it’s an attempt to bring the hate together in trying to increase pressure against Addis Ababa.” In contrast, Somalia’s Information Minister Daud Aweis insisted that the meeting was purely about cooperation rather than hostility towards Ethiopia. He stated, “We are not determined to instigate anything against Addis Ababa” and reiterated Somalia’s ongoing commitment to peace in the region despite previous tensions. Notably, the summit attended by President Isaias Afwerki of Eritrea, Egypt’s President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi, and Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, concluded with an agreement aimed at strengthening Somalia’s governmental institutions and bolstering its military capabilities against terrorism. Amid these developments, Ethiopia has historically been a supportive ally of Somalia in its fight against al-Shabab militants. However, Somalia’s discontent arises from Ethiopia’s recent agreement to lease a portion of Somaliland’s coastline, a move that Somalia views as illegitimate given its claim over Somaliland. Additionally, the fraught relationship between Ethiopia and Egypt over the construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam on the Nile River continues to be a source of tension. Further complicating the regional dynamics, Egypt has made military support moves to Somalia, including the transfer of military equipment, highlighting a substantial intersection of defense cooperation among these nations. It is essential to note that relations between Ethiopia and Eritrea, which had notably improved after a peace declaration in 2018, have regressed, particularly following the civil unrest in Ethiopia’s Tigray region and Abiy Ahmed’s aspirations to gain access to a Red Sea port.
The geopolitical landscape of the Horn of Africa has been characterized by shifting alliances and persistent tensions, particularly involving Ethiopia, Egypt, Somalia, and Eritrea. Ethiopia, once a supporter of the Somali government against terrorist elements, is now viewed with suspicion as strained diplomatic relations unfold. The historical context includes previous conflicts such as the bitter border war between Ethiopia and Eritrea, which saw a significant thaw with the peace deal in 2018. However, recent events, such as Ethiopia’s attempts to secure maritime access and its dealings with Somaliland, have further complicated these relationships. Egypt has had longstanding issues with Ethiopia over river resource management, particularly regarding the Nile. The convergence of Egypt and Somalia, along with Eritrea, signals a possible collective strategy to address mutual concerns regarding Ethiopia’s development strategies and regional influence.
In conclusion, the meeting in Asmara represents a turning point in the regional dynamics of the Horn of Africa, as Egypt, Somalia, and Eritrea navigate their contentious interactions with Ethiopia. While there is a clear effort to strengthen ties among these nations, the underlying tensions remain palpable, particularly over territorial claims and resource management issues. As former alliances transform under the pressure of conflicting interests, the atmosphere in the region suggests that proactive diplomacy will be crucial in avoiding destabilization and fostering peace.
Original Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke
