President Isaias Afwerki of Eritrea and President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia discussed bilateral ties and regional stability in Asmara. Their dialogue emphasized the significance of Somalia’s stability for the Horn of Africa. The meeting continued from a previous summit in October, where leaders addressed security concerns related to Ethiopia’s actions with Somaliland. The discussion highlighted Eritrea’s military support for Somalia and reinforced regional cooperation objectives.
On Wednesday, President Isaias Afwerki of Eritrea and President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia engaged in extensive discussions at the State House in Asmara. The dialogue focused on strengthening bilateral relations and addressing pressing regional and international issues of shared interest. The Eritrean Foreign Ministry emphasized the critical nature of Somalia’s stability for the overall peace and security of the Horn of Africa region. The discussions are aimed at realizing the objective of sustainable regional stability and peace.
In a recent tripartite summit held in October, the leaders of Eritrea, Somalia, and Egypt convened to discuss defense, security, and diplomatic cooperation amidst rising tensions involving Ethiopia. This meeting was precipitated by a contentious January agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland, which, if implemented, would provide Ethiopia much sought access to the Red Sea. Diplomatic sources from Somalia indicated that the leaders also touched upon an Ethiopia-Somalia agreement aimed at alleviating diplomatic strains between the two nations, which is still under technical negotiations.
During their talks on Wednesday, President Isaias underscored the imperative for the region to tackle external influences that may foster conflict, stating that internal challenges should be resolved autonomously. Somali President Mohamud expressed gratitude for Eritrea’s continued support in strengthening Somalia’s National Army and security apparatus, highlighting Eritrea’s pivotal role in fostering stability within the Horn of Africa.
The discussions culminated in a reaffirmation of the objectives established during the October summit, geared towards enhancing collaboration and ensuring regional stability. The growing synergy between Somalia, Eritrea, and Egypt is further underscored by Egypt’s commitment to contribute troops to the African Union peacekeeping mission in Somalia, especially in light of Ethiopia’s maritime interests in Somaliland. Since 2022, Eritrea has been instrumental in training the Somali military, which continues to benefit from its specialized military training initiatives.
This visit by President Mohamud marks his eighth to Eritrea since taking office in May 2022 and highlights the ongoing commitment of both leaders to foster peace and stability in the region.
The discussions between Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud are set against a backdrop of heightened regional tensions, particularly concerning relations between Somalia and Ethiopia. As external pressures threaten to destabilize the Horn of Africa, the focus on collaboration between these neighboring nations is pivotal. Historical grievances and recent geopolitical maneuvers, particularly Ethiopia’s controversial agreements regarding Somaliland, have raised concerns about security and have prompted regional leaders to seek diplomatic resolutions through agreements that reinforce collective cooperation.
The meetings between President Isaias and President Mohamud underscore a crucial bilateral relationship aimed at promoting stability in the Horn of Africa. Their commitment to address internal challenges while minimizing external interference reflects a strategic approach to regional security. Enhanced military cooperation and ongoing diplomatic talks indicate a robust partnership that is essential for maintaining peace in a region marked by complex political dynamics. Thus, these efforts contribute significantly to fostering a secure environment conducive to sustained development.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
