Egypt to Join New African Union Peacekeeping Mission in Somalia
Egypt has pledged to participate in a new African Union peacekeeping mission in Somalia, focusing on combating Islamist insurgents while navigating regional tensions with Ethiopia. This decision follows Somalia’s request and is supported by the African Union, emphasizing a strategic partnership between Egypt and Somalia amid recent diplomatic developments.
Egypt’s Foreign Minister, Badr Abdelatty, announced on Monday that Egypt would participate in a new African Union (AU) peacekeeping mission in Somalia, commending the request from the Somali government and affirming the support of the AU Peace and Security Council. This engagement aligns with growing collaboration between Egypt and Somalia amidst increasing tensions with Ethiopia, particularly following Ethiopia’s recent maritime agreement with the self-declared independent region of Somaliland, which has drawn Somalia closer to Cairo.
As the current African Union Transition Mission in Somalia is set to conclude on December 31, Egypt’s involvement will transition into the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), which aims to combat the threats posed by the Al-Shabaab insurgency. Abdelatty emphasized Somalia’s
This announcement comes at a time of heightened political dynamics in the Horn of Africa, particularly concerning Ethiopia’s interactions with neighboring countries. The maritime dispute between Somalia and Ethiopia has aggravated following Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland, raising Somalia’s security concerns and promoting a stronger relationship with Egypt. In addition, Egypt has expressed its discontent over Ethiopia’s Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam project, further complicating relations. This new AU mission aims to stabilize Somalia and counteract the growing influence of Islamist insurgents, crucial for the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Further, Turkey played a significant mediating role in easing diplomatic tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia, eventually culminating in a historic agreement that excluded Ethiopian forces from the AU peacekeeping initiative. Egypt and Somalia’s military cooperation deal, signed during the visit of Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to Cairo, solidifies their strategic partnership at a time when both countries look to reinforce their security frameworks amidst regional instability.
In conclusion, Egypt’s commitment to joining the new AU peacekeeping force in Somalia underscores its dedication to regional stability and solidarity with Somalia. This move, especially in the context of recent tensions with Ethiopia, illustrates Egypt’s proactive approach to security cooperation in the Horn of Africa. The collaboration is significant not only for countering terrorism but also for fostering political unity and sovereignty in Somalia. With ongoing diplomatic undertakings, such alliances may well pave the way for more stable regional relations going forward.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
