In a summit in Asmara, Somalia, Eritrea, and Egypt’s leaders pledged to enhance security cooperation amidst heightened tensions and terrorism threats in the Horn of Africa, particularly against al-Shabab. They emphasized respecting sovereignty and addressing external interference while acknowledging the complex dynamics with Ethiopia in the region.
Presidents Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia, Isaias Afwerki of Eritrea, and Abdel Fattah al-Sisi of Egypt convened a trilateral summit in Asmara to address regional security concerns amid increasing tensions in the Horn of Africa. This meeting was prompted by Somalia’s ongoing struggle against the al-Shabab militant organization. In a joint declaration, the leaders underscored their commitment to enhancing cooperation aimed at ensuring stability in the region, emphasizing the need for “unequivocal respect for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of the countries of the region.” They also expressed the necessity of collectively addressing external interference in regional affairs and fostering a collaborative environment conducive to sustainable development. On the critical matter of security, they affirmed their intention to deepen joint efforts to combat terrorism, safeguard national borders, and uphold Somalia’s territorial integrity. This decision carries implications for neighboring Ethiopia, which has deployed a considerable number of troops in Somalia to counter al-Qaeda-associated threats. Ethiopia’s relationship with Somalia has soured recently over port construction plans in the unrecognized state of Somaliland. Previously, Somalia aligned itself with Egypt through a significant military agreement that includes provisions for Egyptian forces to participate in an upcoming African Union initiative targeting al-Shabab. Ethiopia, embroiled in a longstanding dispute with Egypt over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam on the Nile River, has maintained that its relationship with Eritrea remains amicable despite past tensions arising from Eritrea’s military support during Ethiopia’s conflict with the Tigray region. Additionally, Eritrea’s omission from peace negotiations involving the Tigrayan forces has not gone unnoticed and has contributed to regional dynamics. According to Nebiat Getachew, spokesperson for the Ethiopian Foreign Ministry, the relations with Eritrea are characterized by “good neighbourliness and good friendship.”
The meeting among the three leaders comes at a pivotal moment for the Horn of Africa, a region often marked by conflict and competition for resources. Somalia has been battling the al-Shabab terrorist group, which poses a significant threat to its stability and governance. At the same time, Ethiopia’s involvement in Somalia and its regional ambitions are complicated by its historical tensions with both Eritrea and Egypt, particularly surrounding issues like the Nile River and the presence of militant groups. The trilateral meeting represents a strategic effort to unite against common threats and bolster regional security, reflecting broader geopolitical interests in the area.
In summary, the recent summit in Asmara between the leaders of Somalia, Eritrea, and Egypt reflects a concerted effort to enhance regional security amidst growing threats from terrorism and geopolitical rivalry. The commitment to cooperate against external interference and bolster national sovereignty is crucial in light of ongoing tensions involving Ethiopia and militant groups in the region. As these countries navigate their complex relationships, the agreements reached may play a vital role in shaping the future security landscape of the Horn of Africa.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
