ASMARA, Eritrea – Egypt, Somalia, and Eritrea have joined forces, stirring up the already bubbling pot of regional tensions, especially with Ethiopia. The diplomatic shake-up unfolded at a summit in Asmara, where Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia, and Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki gathered to map out strategic cooperation.
This alliance emerges against the backdrop of Ethiopia making waves with its contentious deal with North Western State of Somalia, aiming for a slice of the Red Sea coast. This move has set off alarm bells about regional upheaval. Egypt is already locking horns with Ethiopia over the massive GERD project and sees Ethiopia’s coastal ambitions as a threat to its region-wide influence and national interests.
Somalia, stirred up by Ethiopia’s acknowledgment of North Western State of Somalia, perceives its independence in a precarious position, prompting it to align closely with Egypt. This burgeoning partnership includes ramped-up military support from Egypt, with military gear and troops heading to Somalia, signaling a blunt message to Ethiopia.
Eritrea, known for its reclusive foreign dealings, is stepping out of the shadows to facilitate these high-stakes talks, showing a noticeable pivot in its external relations strategy. For President Afwerki, this coalition offers a way to counterbalance Ethiopia’s geopolitical chess game.
The Asmara dialogues might soon bear fruit in the form of a formal pact or manifesto, possibly detailing a coordinated security plan or punitive economic actions targeting Ethiopia. Such a pact could remap the Horn of Africa’s geopolitical landscape, impacting everything from trade corridors to military partnerships.
This new regional alignment could stir worries about proxy wars or an arms race, especially given the longstanding friction over water rights and borders. Analysts warn that while an outright military clash remains far-fetched due to broader geopolitical ramifications, the area might witness an uptick in diplomatic wrangling and economic sabre-rattling.
The international community will be keeping a hawk-eye on the summit’s resolutions, as it holds significant implications for not only neighboring nations but also global stakeholders with vested interests in the Red Sea’s stability and the wider African subcontinent. The alliance’s direction could either foster dialogue paths or deepen regional disputes.
AXADLETM
