Eritrea’s Foreign Minister Osman Saleh, during a visit to Cairo, articulated a viewpoint that left Ethiopia—and observers around the globe—wondering about the future dynamics in the region. According to the Egyptian presidency, Saleh stated unequivocally that landlocked nations should have no hand in the security arrangements of maritime corridors such as the Red Sea.

The message he brought from Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi has stirred waves across diplomatic circles. “Egypt is committed to strengthening bilateral relations,” remarked Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy, the Egyptian presidential spokesperson, underscoring the importance of the recent dialogue.

“Regional stability and security cooperation remain at the forefront of our discussions.” — Mohamed El-Shennawy

Within this context, a nuanced discussion unfolded, with senior figures like Egypt’s Foreign Affairs Minister Badr Abdelaty and the head of the General Intelligence Service, Rashab Hassan, participating actively.

A Matter of Sovereignty and Access

For Ethiopia, the Red Sea represents not just a matter of strategic access but a historical contention. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed recently underscored this by labeling accessibility to this vital sea route as a “priority,” albeit one guided by diplomacy rather than conflict. The Ethiopian stance advocates for solutions rooted in “give and take” and “market principles,” as Abiy himself passionately remarked in a public address. Yet, he also warned against letting the issue simmer, fearing it might burgeon into future challenges. Who can truly own the pathways of water that connect nations?

Despite Ethiopia’s diplomatic overtures, Osman Saleh’s comments resonate differently. Eritrea bristles at what it perceives as Ethiopia’s “outdated ambitions” in seeking maritime access. Saleh’s rhetoric calls for an international reaffirmation of commitments—reminding Ethiopia, and the world, that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of neighboring states must be respected.

Wider Regional Implications

The significance of Sunday’s meeting between Eritrea and Egypt extends beyond their national borders. Discussion topics ranged from the ongoing conflict in Sudan to the need for stability in Somalia—highlighting regional interconnectivity. They stressed support for peace processes in Sudan while recognizing Somalia’s pivotal role in combating terrorism.

Osman Saleh’s diplomatic trail did not end in Cairo. Earlier, he visited Saudi Arabia, engaging in discussions with influential figures such as Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah. These talks further underscore the regional impacts of the Red Sea debate. What ramifications do these high-level conversations portend for the region’s fragile peace?