Next week, Egypt is set for discussions with Somalia to explore the role Egyptian troops could play in a diverse force tackling Islamist extremists in the Horn of Africa. This is a notable development in a longstanding regional conflict, promising potential shifts in military alliances and strategies.
According to Ali Balcad, the Somali state minister for foreign affairs, these crucial talks are slated for January 15-17 in bustling Cairo. Not too long ago, Egypt’s foreign minister declared that Egypt would contribute soldiers to the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission. This move was in response to a specific request from Somalia.
Meanwhile, on the Somali front, there’s talk about reconsidering the exclusion of Ethiopian troops from their peacekeeping force. It seems an easing of past conflicts with Ethiopia, thanks to Turkey’s mediating efforts, might be paving the way for this reconsideration.
Balcad noted that the specifics of this potential Ethiopian presence — particularly the size of their contingent—remain under wraps. It’s a game of wait and see right now, folks.
For those watching the region, it’s vital to note that Ethiopia has been a long-standing, key player in the United Nations-backed force battling al-Shabaab. This militant group, with cauldron-like ties to al-Qaeda, has been stirring trouble for nearly twenty years. The dynamics are layered and complex, with history and alliances playing intricate roles in the unfolding scenario.
Indeed, these dialogues in Cairo could be a turning point, influencing regional peace efforts and strategic military deployments. It’s a tale of diplomacy infused with military might, where each nation’s decisions could echo widely through the geopolitical landscape of East Africa.
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
Axadle international–Monitoring
