Egypt to Participate in New AU Peacekeeping Force in Somalia
Egypt announced its participation in a new African Union peacekeeping force in Somalia, following a request from the Somali government. This initiative comes amid rising tensions with Ethiopia and aims to address threats from Al-Shabaab insurgents. Egypt’s involvement reflects a broader strategy of strengthening ties with Somalia, particularly in light of ongoing disputes related to the Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.
On Monday, Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty announced that Egypt will contribute to a new African Union peacekeeping force in Somalia, marking a significant step in the nation’s involvement in the Horn of Africa amid rising tensions with Ethiopia. This decision was made following a formal request from the Somali government and subsequent approval from the African Union Peace and Security Council. The remarks were made during a joint press conference with Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, Somalia’s Foreign Minister, held in Cairo.
The collaboration comes in light of escalating tensions after Ethiopia’s January agreement with Somaliland, prompting Somalia to consolidate its ties with Cairo as a regional counterbalance. As the current African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) is set to conclude on December 31, preparations are underway for the establishment of the new African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), which will primarily address threats from the Islamist group, Al-Shabaab.
In his address, Abdelatty emphasized Egypt’s commitment to upholding Somalia’s sovereignty, asserting, “Somalia’s sovereignty over (its) entire national soil,” and denouncing any attempts to undermine its unity. Recently, Turkey mediated to resolve a protracted dispute between Somalia and Ethiopia, an outcome praised by international observers, including the African Union and the United States.
Despite Somalia’s initial objections to the inclusion of Ethiopian troops in the peacekeeping force, Egypt’s involvement has been welcomed. Specific details regarding the extent of Egypt’s participation were not disclosed. Nonetheless, Abdelatty indicated that strategic alliances are being forged between the two nations. Earlier this year, Egypt and Somalia signed a military cooperation agreement, and a summit in Asmara established a partnership involving Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia, perceived as a coalition serving to marginalize Ethiopia. Egypt’s long-standing concerns over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, which it argues imperils its water supply, further complicate the regional dynamics.
The announcement of Egypt’s involvement in the new African Union peacekeeping force in Somalia highlights the shifting geopolitical landscape in the Horn of Africa. The region has been fraught with tensions, especially stemming from Ethiopia’s maritime agreements with Somaliland and its implications for Somalia. Egypt has consistently viewed Ethiopia’s actions regarding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam as a direct threat to its water security, prompting Cairo to seek stronger ties with Somalia. The peacekeeping mission aims to stabilize Somalia against the backdrop of ongoing threats posed by insurgent groups and to reinforce regional alliances amid existing conflicts.
In conclusion, Egypt’s planned participation in the new African Union peacekeeping force underscores a strategic pivot toward strengthening relations with Somalia as tensions with Ethiopia persist. This collaboration not only aims to bolster security in Somalia but also represents a broader regional strategy to counterbalance Ethiopian influence. As the situation develops, the dynamics of the Horn of Africa will likely continue to evolve, highlighting the importance of international diplomatic efforts in addressing underlying conflicts.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
