Egypt’s Foreign Minister announced Egypt’s involvement in a new AU peacekeeping force in Somalia, following a Somali request and AU endorsement. This marks a step towards closer relations amid Ethiopian tensions. The transition to the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia aims to tackle Al-Shabaab insurgents, highlighting Egypt’s commitment to Somalia’s sovereignty and regional stability.
Egypt’s Foreign Minister, Badr Abdelatty, announced on Monday that Egypt will participate in a new African Union (AU) peacekeeping mission in Somalia, strengthening ties between the two nations amid escalating tensions with Ethiopia. The decision comes in response to a request from the Somali government and the endorsement of the African Union Peace and Security Council. This announcement precedes the conclusion of the existing African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) on December 31, transitioning to the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), aimed at combating the Al-Shabaab insurgent group.
Abdelatty emphasized Somalia’s sovereignty during a joint press conference with Somali Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi held in Cairo. He firmly rejected any unilateral actions that could jeopardize Somalia’s unity and stability. Recent developments include Turkey facilitating a resolution to a prolonged conflict between Somalia and Ethiopia, a move that was praised as historic and received favorably by the African Union and the international community. Ethiopia’s exclusion from the AU peacekeeping forces was welcomed by Somalia, who now intends to solidify its alliance with Egypt.
In recent months, Egypt and Somalia have engaged in deeper military collaboration, highlighted by a military cooperation agreement signed in August, coinciding with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s visit to Cairo. Furthermore, a summit in Asmara brought together Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia, indicating a new regional alignment perceived as excluding Ethiopia. The longstanding rivalry between Cairo and Addis Ababa primarily revolves around the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, which Egypt believes poses a threat to its essential water resources.
The Horn of Africa has been fraught with tensions, particularly between Ethiopia and its neighboring countries. The maritime agreement Ethiopia signed with Somaliland in January heightened the apprehension in Mogadishu, prompting Somalia to seek alliances that could counterbalance its relations with Addis Ababa. The African Union’s role in peacekeeping within Somalia has been continuously evolving, with the previous mission set to conclude, paving the way for a new force dedicated to addressing the threat posed by Al-Shabaab insurgents. This realignment of regional powers is crucial in the context of Somalia’s ongoing sovereignty struggles and security challenges.
In conclusion, Egypt’s commitment to join the new AU peacekeeping mission in Somalia underscores a significant shift in regional alliances, driven by shared concerns over Ethiopian actions. The collaboration reflects both nations’ determination to enhance Somalia’s stability and affirm its sovereignty. As the situation evolves, the effectiveness of the AU’s engagement against the Al-Shabaab insurgency will remain pivotal for regional security and diplomatic relations in the Horn of Africa.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
