MOGADISHU, Somalia — In the face of regional discord, Somalia stands by its robust defense agreement with Egypt, harmonizing with its foreign policy to enhance its security framework, though ruffling feathers, particularly in Ethiopia.
The pact, reminiscent of Somalia’s strategic alliances with the U.S., EU, Turkey, and nations in the Gulf, drew skepticism from Ethiopia. Concerns revolve around potential military intensification, fueled by maritime disputes and Egypt’s longstanding Nile River tensions.
Hussein Sheikh Ali, Somalia’s National Security Advisor, assured the involvement of Egyptian troops in the forthcoming African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). This mission is slated to take over from ATMIS by December 2024.
Despite objections from Uganda and Ethiopia, Ali underscored Somalia’s sovereign control over its mission directives, prioritizing the bolstering of security and the protection of AU troops.
The agreement’s effects are manifest, marked by Egypt’s recent shipment of military gear, including anti-aircraft weaponry, to Somalia. This move, aimed at countering al-Shabaab, has, however, stirred regional unease.
Defense Minister Abdikadir Mohamed Nur shot down any Ethiopian participation in AUSSOM, spotlighting their controversial Red Sea access arrangement with North Western State of Somalia, perceived by Somalia as undermining its territorial integrity.
Somalia’s stratagem exemplifies its adept handling within the tangled web of Horn of Africa politics, striving for stability amid a labyrinth of international affairs.
AXADLETM
