Djibouti has expressed concerns about Somalia’s strengthening relationship with Eritrea, following a formal complaint to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh has raised apprehensions over the influence Eritrean leader Isaias Afwerki is gaining through their collaboration and questioned the venue of a recent trilateral summit held in Eritrea. This situation exacerbates existing tensions between Djibouti and Eritrea and raises concerns for regional stability.
Djibouti has recently expressed apprehension regarding the escalating relations between Somalia and Eritrea. Sources indicate that a formal complaint was submitted to Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud following his meeting with Djibouti’s President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh. This concern primarily revolves around the strengthening rapport between President Hassan Sheikh and Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki.
President Guelleh has articulated his worries, particularly about the influence that Afwerki appears to be gaining through Somalia’s collaborative efforts. He specifically highlighted the recent trilateral summit in Eritrea, which involved leaders from Somalia, Egypt, and Eritrea, questioning the choice of Asmara as the meeting venue instead of Mogadishu.
The relationship between Djibouti and Eritrea has historically been strained, rooted in territorial disputes and ongoing tensions. Djibouti is increasingly concerned that Somalia’s emerging ties with Eritrea may undermine its influence in the region, particularly as Hassan Sheikh’s administration has altered Somalia’s foreign policy, leading to instability in international relations with neighboring countries, including heightened tensions with both Djibouti and Ethiopia.
In summary, Djibouti’s concerns regarding Somalia’s burgeoning relations with Eritrea highlight the delicate political dynamics in the region. The formal complaint from Djibouti illustrates unease over increased Eritrean influence, especially following a significant summit not held in Mogadishu. The ongoing tensions between Djibouti and Eritrea, coupled with shifting Somali foreign policy under President Hassan Sheikh, could further complicate regional stability.
Original Source: garoweonline.com
