Leaders from Egypt, Somalia, and Eritrea have convened in Asmara, the capital of Eritrea, in a significant summit amid ongoing tensions with Ethiopia. The summit’s declaration emphasized the importance of “respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of countries in the region,” a statement that many interpret as a veiled critique of Ethiopia’s pursuit of maritime access.
The recent diplomatic rift has fostered stronger ties between Somalia and its two partners, both of which have longstanding grievances with Ethiopia. Experts express concern that escalating tensions could potentially lead to conflict. “This is an axis aiming to increase pressure against Addis Ababa,” remarked a regional security analyst, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
In contrast, Somalia’s Information Minister has downplayed the meeting’s implications, asserting that it was solely focused on enhancing cooperation rather than pursuing any hostile agenda against Ethiopia. He acknowledged the historical cooperation with Ethiopia but pointed out recent destabilizing actions from its leadership.
Eritrea issued a photograph showcasing President Isaias Afwerki alongside Egyptian President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, signaling unity among the three nations. Their joint statement stressed the need to bolster Somali state institutions and empower the Somali National Federal Army to combat terrorism effectively.
This summit marked Egyptian President Sisi’s inaugural visit to Asmara, while the Somali president has visited three times this year, indicating increased diplomatic engagement. Ethiopia has been a key ally of Somalia in the fight against the al-Qaeda-affiliated group al-Shabab but has recently faced backlash from Somalia regarding a deal that grants Somaliland, viewed by Somalia as its territory, a lease on a segment of the Ethiopian coastline.
Compounding tensions, Ethiopia and Egypt have been embroiled in disputes over a significant hydroelectric dam that Ethiopia is constructing on the Nile, a vital water source for Egypt. Recent military exchanges have also occurred, with Egyptian shipments of military support to Somalia raising eyebrows in the region.
While relations between Ethiopia and Eritrea momentarily improved following a peace agreement in 2018, the situation has since soured, particularly following Ethiopia’s civil war and ongoing ambitions for Red Sea access. The unfolding dynamics present a complex and potentially volatile scenario in the Horn of Africa, warranting close observation.
