Egypt is forging a new security alliance with Somalia and Eritrea amidst escalating tensions with Ethiopia. The trilateral talks aim to strengthen military cooperation and protect territorial integrity, focusing on enhanced security for Somalia and regional dynamics in the Horn of Africa. Ethiopia’s response to this development is marked by concerns over arms being supplied to Somalia. The realignment of alliances could reshape diplomatic relations in the region.
Egypt is establishing a new security alliance with Somalia and Eritrea, aiming to respond to rising tensions in the Horn of Africa, particularly concerning Ethiopia. On Thursday, President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi of Egypt visited Asmara, where he is set to engage in trilateral talks with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Eritrean leader Isaias Afwerki. This summit is expected to address bilateral relationships and stability in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea region. Earlier discussions between President Mohamud and President Afwerki centered around fostering regional cooperation and safeguarding their nations’ territorial integrity, implicitly targeting Ethiopia’s influence. The Eritrean Ministry of Information noted, “The two leaders underscored the imperative of further bolstering the bilateral cooperation of the two sisterly countries in the heavy tasks of the maintenance of the sovereignty, territorial integrity, independence, and unity of Somalia.” Eritrea has been building capacity within the Somali National Army over the past three years, yet the involvement of Egypt marks a significant development. Egypt has recently signed a defense agreement with Somalia, pledging to train and equip Somali troops while also committing to send soldiers as part of a new African Union mission. This move follows accusations from Somalia that Ethiopia is attempting to annex its territory, particularly after Ethiopia’s controversial memorandum of understanding with Somaliland, which is perceived as a land grab. Somalia has condemned Ethiopia’s actions in various international forums, alleging violations of its sovereignty, and has declared intentions to terminate agreements involving Ethiopian troops in its territory. Ethiopia, on the other hand, has expressed concerns over the potential consequences of Egyptian arms supplies to Somalia, particularly the risks of these weapons falling into the wrong hands, including al-Shabaab militants. The prospective alliance among Egypt, Somalia, and Eritrea holds varied implications for each country. For Somalia, it could mean enhanced security against Ethiopia, which has been labeled an adversary. For Egypt, it is poised to offer strategic security guarantees in the Red Sea, while for Eritrea, it represents a chance to challenge Ethiopia. Earlier attempts led by Turkey to mediate between Somalia and Ethiopia may be hindered by this newly formed coalition. Concurrently, Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty briefed African ambassadors on Egypt’s strategic interests in the Horn of Africa prior to al-Sisi’s visit. Given Egypt’s dependence on the Red Sea for Suez Canal revenue, tensions are heightened by Ethiopia’s naval ambitions in the region. The realignment of alliances marks a distinct shift, removing Addis Ababa from previous cooperative frameworks in the Horn of Africa.
The Horn of Africa region has witnessed escalating tensions primarily due to territorial disputes and regional power dynamics involving Ethiopia, Somalia, and Eritrea. Ethiopia’s involvement in Somalia through military alliances has historically been contentious, especially in light of its recent agreements with Somaliland that Somalia perceives as threats to its sovereignty. Egypt’s interest in this region is significantly tied to the Nile River’s management and issues pertaining to the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, intensifying its rivalry with Ethiopia. The strategic formation of alliances among these nations is indicative of broader geopolitical maneuvers aimed at safeguarding national interests in a volatile area.
In conclusion, the establishment of a security alliance among Egypt, Somalia, and Eritrea marks a pivotal moment in the Horn of Africa, potentially exacerbating existing tensions with Ethiopia. This coalition aims to bolster regional security and territorial integrity amidst concerns over Ethiopia’s territorial ambitions and military buildup. The implications of this realignment could alter the security landscape in the Horn of Africa, complicating existing diplomatic efforts and further isolating Ethiopia.
Original Source: nation.africa
