Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki asserts that the recent summit in Asmara does not signify a coalition against Ethiopia. He emphasizes Eritrea’s commitment to stability in the region, rejecting claims of hostile alliances as propaganda. His statements address ongoing tensions involving Ethiopia, Somalia, and external influences, as well as internal conflicts within Ethiopia rooted in ethnic divisions. Afwerki reaffirms Eritrea’s support for peace efforts in Sudan and regional cooperation.
In a recent statement, Eritrea’s President Isaias Afwerki clarified that the recent Tripartite summit held in Asmara was not directed against Ethiopia. He described claims of an oppositional alliance comprising Somalia, Egypt, and Eritrea as propaganda aimed at inducing anxiety within the Horn of Africa. Afwerki emphasized Eritrea’s desire to maintain stability in the region, stating, “Eritrea has no interest in seeing Ethiopia destabilized.” He reiterated the importance of cooperation among neighboring nations in the face of mutual challenges.
Tensions have been rising, particularly regarding Somalia and Ethiopia, as Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland regarding access to the Red Sea has raised concerns. Additionally, Ethiopia’s disagreements with Egypt over Nile Basin management have further strained relations. Egypt’s recent offer to lead the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia is perceived as a strategic move aimed at countering Ethiopia’s influence, as Egypt seeks to bolster Somalia’s autonomy.
Afwerki condemned external disinformation that seeks to exacerbate regional conflicts, attributing Ethiopia’s troubles to its ethnicity-based constitution, which he termed “fundamentally flawed.” He highlighted Ethiopia’s internal strife, evidenced by the ongoing ethnic conflicts and the Tigray conflict’s repercussions. He linked the persistent border clashes with Eritrea to external interference, pointing to the TPLF’s previous rocket attacks as examples of destabilizing activities.
In addressing the conflict in Sudan, President Afwerki affirmed Eritrea’s commitment to support peace efforts. He stressed that the resolution of the situation must be determined by the Sudanese people, a sentiment fostering Eritrea’s historical ties to Sudan. In contrast, Ethiopia intends to maintain its involvement in peacekeeping missions in Somalia, despite opposition from Mogadishu, particularly concerning its agreement with Somaliland.
The geopolitical landscape of the Horn of Africa has been marked by complex inter-state dynamics, particularly involving Ethiopia, Eritrea, Somalia, and Egypt. Following a period of conflict, Eritrea and Ethiopia had normalized relations, but recent tensions have arisen due to Ethiopia’s agreements with regional actors, notably Somaliland. The involvement of foreign powers, such as Egypt, has added layers of complexity to regional alignments and has been met with skepticism from Eritrean leadership, which seeks to assert its influence amidst rising tensions. The historical context of ethnic strife in Ethiopia further complicates the regional dynamics, affecting peace and stability across borders.
The statements made by President Afwerki underline Eritrea’s stance of non-antagonism towards Ethiopia despite regional tensions. He sought to dispel notions of a newly formed alliance aimed at Ethiopia, while simultaneously critiquing its internal political frameworks. The ongoing disputes involving Somalia, Egypt, and Ethiopia underscore the delicate balance of power in the Horn of Africa. Ultimately, Afwerki’s reaffirmation of Eritrea’s intent to support stability in Sudan and collaboration among neighboring states reflects a nuanced approach to regional diplomacy.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
