The leaders of Eritrea, Egypt, and Somalia met in Asmara to strengthen their alliance against Ethiopia, focusing on military cooperation and addressing regional challenges. This collaboration arises from shared grievances against Ethiopia, particularly regarding territorial and resource disputes. The potential for increased regional tension looms, influenced by historical conflicts and recent military engagements among the nations involved.
Leaders from Egypt, Somalia, and Eritrea convened in Asmara, the capital of Eritrea, to strengthen their collaborative stance against Ethiopia. A concluding statement from the talks emphasized the significance of respecting each nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, implicitly suggesting Ethiopia’s ambitions for maritime access due to its landlocked status—though it was not explicitly named. The gathering follows heightened diplomatic tensions that have drawn Somalia closer to Egypt and Eritrea, both of which harbor longstanding grievances against Ethiopia. Hassan Khannenje, the Director of the Horn International Institute for Strategic Studies, remarked on this coalition, stating, “This is an axis against [Ethiopian capital] Addis Ababa. I think it’s an attempt to bring the hate together in trying to increase pressure against Addis Ababa.” The three leaders also resolved to bolster Somali state institutions to address various challenges, including empowering the Somali National Federal Army to combat terrorism. This summit marked a significant visit for President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi of Egypt, contrasting with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia, who has visited Eritrea three times this year. Historically, Ethiopia has been a prominent supporter of Somalia in its struggle against the al-Qaeda-affiliated group al-Shabab. However, relations soured when Ethiopia entered into an agreement earlier this year with Somaliland—a region Somalia claims as its own—thus exacerbating tensions. Moreover, a protracted dispute has existed between Egypt and Ethiopia regarding the latter’s construction of a hydroelectric dam on the Nile River, which Egypt perceives as a threat to its critical water supply. Recent developments indicate strengthening military relations, as demonstrated by an Egyptian military vessel delivering significant military supplies to Somalia following earlier deliveries of arms by air. This interconnection unfolds against a backdrop of previously reconciled relations following the 2018 peace agreement between Ethiopia and Eritrea, spearheaded by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who subsequently received the Nobel Peace Prize. However, the situation has reescalated tensions among these neighboring states following Ethiopia’s civil conflict and Abiy’s statements regarding access to Red Sea ports. This evolving geopolitical landscape presents potential risks of increased regional instability as these nations navigate their historical disputes and emerging alliances.
The recent summit among the leaders of Eritrea, Egypt, and Somalia signifies a critical juncture in the Horn of Africa, particularly concerning the geopolitical dynamics with Ethiopia. Historically, Ethiopia’s landlocked status has led to ambitions for access to a seaport, which has often resulted in friction with its neighbors. The backdrop of this summit is colored by Ethiopia’s contentious relationships with both Egypt and Somali, stemming from territorial disputes and resource management conflicts, particularly involving the Nile River. The lasting effects of the civil war in Ethiopia’s Tigray region and subsequent peace accords have further complicated relations with Eritrea, which had once relaunched a peace treaty with Ethiopia in 2018. National security and military cooperation have become focal points, especially with external influences from Egypt, as military aid flows into Somalia amid Ethiopia’s historical support for the Somali government. This intricate tapestry of alliances and hostilities underscores the ongoing struggles over territory, governance, and resources in a region steeped in historical rivalries and aspirations for stability.
The recent summit among Eritrea, Egypt, and Somalia marks a significant step toward forming a regional coalition against Ethiopia, rooted in historical grievances and current geopolitical struggles. The summit’s outcomes illustrate a concerted effort to enhance military readiness and diplomatic ties while signaling potential risks of escalated conflict in the region. The intricate relationships among these nations, interspersed with previous peace efforts and the ongoing repercussions of Ethiopia’s civil strife, illustrate a complex landscape that will require careful navigation to prevent further destabilization.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
