Egypt has opposed military presence from non-littoral states in the Red Sea, citing security concerns tied to Ethiopian tensions, particularly regarding Somaliland. In a joint press conference, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty stressed Egypt’s support for Somalia’s territorial integrity and announced plans for ongoing diplomatic collaboration with Eritrea and Somalia. The focus remains on regional stability and implementing decisions from the recent Asmara Summit.
In a decisive move, Egypt has firmly rejected any military presence from non-littoral states in the Red Sea. This stance comes amid increasing tensions with Ethiopia, particularly regarding Ethiopia’s relations with Somaliland, a breakaway region of Somalia. During a joint press conference in Cairo, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty emphasized the negative implications that may arise from granting landlocked countries military access to the Red Sea, which he described as detrimental to regional security practices.
The press conference, also attended by Eritrean Foreign Minister Osman Saleh and Somali Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, served as a platform to reinforce Egypt’s influence in the Horn of Africa. In their joint statement, the ministers reiterated their commitment to ongoing diplomatic cooperation and announced plans for periodic ministerial meetings. The subsequent gathering is slated to occur in Mogadishu, with arrangements for a presidential level trilateral summit in development.
Highlighting the importance of regional stability, Minister Abdelatty underscored Egypt’s unwavering support for Somalia, which is currently confronting internal turmoil. He stated that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Somalia would be safeguarded, reinforcing Egypt’s dedication to ensuring the nation’s stability against various threats, including terrorism. During the press conference, he remarked, “We reaffirm our commitment to Somalia’s stability, security, and territorial integrity, and we support the government in extending state control over its entire territory and combating terrorism.”
The discussions also focused on implementing the resolutions from the recent Asmara Summit, which convened leaders from Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia. Minister Abdelatty’s remarks exhibit Egypt’s strategic interest in preserving its influence and enhancing cooperation in the region, particularly as it relates to security and stability mechanisms affecting the Horn of Africa.
The Red Sea, a crucial maritime route, has become a focal point of geopolitical tensions, particularly with the ongoing disputes between Ethiopia and surrounding nations, including Somalia and Eritrea. The military presence of non-littoral states, especially those without direct coastlines, could significantly disrupt established security measures and escalate regional conflicts. Egypt has historically viewed its influence in the Horn of Africa as vital not only for its national security but also for maintaining regional stability. The complex dynamic involving breakaway states like Somaliland further complicates the situation, necessitating diplomatic dialogues among the involved nations to ensure mutual cooperation and security.
In conclusion, Egypt’s outright rejection of non-littoral military presence in the Red Sea signifies its commitment to regional sovereignty and security amidst rising tensions with Ethiopia. The Egyptian government’s collaborative approach with Somalia and Eritrea demonstrates a strategic alliance intended to fortify stability in the Horn of Africa. With continued diplomatic coordination and future meetings, Egypt aims to assert its influence while addressing the intricate geopolitical challenges posed in the region.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
