Leaders from Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia met in Asmara on October 10, 2024, to address rising tensions in the Horn of Africa following a controversial deal between Ethiopia and Somaliland. The summit aimed to strengthen regional cooperation and discuss security and stability issues amid ongoing disputes over resources and sovereignty.
On October 10, 2024, leaders from Egypt, Somalia, and Eritrea convened in Asmara for a significant three-way summit aimed at addressing rising tensions in the Horn of Africa. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki, and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud participated in discussions focused on strengthening bilateral and regional ties as well as enhancing stability and security in a region marked by complexities and rivalries. The meeting has taken on particular importance amidst escalating concerns following a recent agreement between Ethiopia and the breakaway region of Somaliland, which grants Somaliland access to the sea. This arrangement has drawn the ire of Mogadishu, intensifying regional rivalries, especially between Somalia and Ethiopia, which has been a point of contention for some time, particularly concerning the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam project that poses potential threats to Egypt’s vital water resources. According to Eritrea’s information ministry, discussions during the summit will include critical issues of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and cooperation against shared challenges, particularly given Somalia’s turbulent history over the past two decades. Notably, President Mohamud has been proactive in fostering relations with Eritrea, marking this summit as another step in that direction. Meanwhile, El-Sisi’s visit underscores Egypt’s support for Somalia amidst its ongoing standoff with Ethiopia. The geopolitical landscape in the Horn of Africa is further complicated by deteriorating relations between Ethiopia and Eritrea, despite Eritrean troops previously supporting Ethiopian forces during the Tigray conflict. Recent disruptions, including Ethiopian Airlines suspending flights to Asmara, hint at ongoing friction between these nations.
The geopolitical climate in the Horn of Africa has been fraught with challenges, particularly concerning territorial disputes and access to resources. The recent agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland has provoked strong reactions from Somalia, as it is seen as a direct threat to its integrity and sovereignty. The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam has long been a source of conflict between Egypt and Ethiopia, highlighting water security concerns for Egypt, which relies heavily on the Nile for its water supply. The summits among these leaders aim to counteract the growing regional instability by fostering cooperation and dialogue.
The summit involving the leaders of Egypt, Somalia, and Eritrea demonstrates a concerted effort to navigate the intricate web of tensions and rivalries in the Horn of Africa. The discussions are poised to address fundamental issues concerning sovereignty, regional solidarity, and stability, amid a backdrop of increasing fragmentation in inter-state relations. As the leaders work collaboratively to strengthen their ties, the international community will closely monitor developments in this strategically significant region.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
