Somalia has defended its defense pact with Egypt, asserting its importance for national security amid regional tensions, particularly from Ethiopia. The partnership includes Egyptian military support for Somalia’s upcoming African Union stabilization mission, despite opposition from neighbors. Somalia’s Defense Minister has rejected Ethiopian claims to involvement in the mission, underscoring the ongoing geopolitical complexities in the region.
MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somalia has reiterated its commitment to the strategic defense pact established with Egypt, emphasizing that it is a crucial element of its foreign policy aimed at strengthening national security. This alliance has raised apprehensions among regional stakeholders, particularly Ethiopia, which has expressed concerns that the agreement could exacerbate military tensions due to ongoing maritime disputes and Egypt’s contentious positions regarding the Nile River’s water management. Hussein Sheikh Ali, Somalia’s National Security Advisor, confirmed that Egyptian military personnel will play a role in the forthcoming African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), scheduled to replace the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) by December 2024. Despite objections from countries such as Uganda and Ethiopia, Mr. Ali underscored that the Somali government retains the authority to make independent decisions regarding the mission’s operations, with an emphasis on improving national security and protecting African Union forces deployed in the region. The effects of the defense agreement are already observable, with Egypt recently supplying Somalia with military hardware, including anti-aircraft weaponry, intended to bolster the nation’s defenses against the terrorist group al-Shabaab. However, this military support has further intensified regional tensions. Somalia’s Defense Minister, Abdikadir Mohamed Nur, has categorically dismissed Ethiopia’s potential involvement in AUSSOM, referencing Ethiopia’s controversial arrangements with Somaliland regarding access to Red Sea ports, which Somalia perceives as a challenge to its sovereignty. The developments reflect Somalia’s strategic maneuvers within the complex geopolitical landscape of the Horn of Africa, as it seeks to navigate international relations while striving for enhanced stability within its borders.
The defense agreement between Somalia and Egypt is part of broader geopolitical dynamics in the Horn of Africa, a region characterized by a mix of cooperation and conflict. Somalia’s security situation has been precarious, primarily due to the persistent threat from al-Shabaab militants. Aligning with Egypt serves not only as a mechanism for military assistance but also signifies an effort to establish Somalia as an active player in regional security matters. Ethiopia’s concerns stem from its own historical rivalries and geopolitical interests that intersect with those of Somalia, particularly regarding water resources and territorial claims.
In summary, Somalia’s defense pact with Egypt is a significant step towards enhancing its national security but also raises critical concerns regionally, especially from Ethiopia. The Somali government remains committed to its course of action despite opposition, emphasizing its sovereignty and focus on fortifying its defenses against internal and external threats. The situation continues to evolve, reflecting the intricate web of alliances and tensions that characterize the Horn of Africa’s security landscape.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
