Djibouti has raised formal concerns with Somalia regarding President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s burgeoning ties with Eritrea and President Isaias Afwerki. The complaint follows a summit hosted in Eritrea rather than Somalia, reflecting Djibouti’s unease over the implications for regional stability amid ongoing historical tensions between Djibouti and Eritrea.
Djibouti has formally expressed concerns regarding the increasingly close relationship between Somalia and Eritrea, particularly following a meeting between Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Djibouti’s President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh. According to sources from Garowe Online, this complaint has been directed to President Mohamud, indicating Djibouti’s apprehension about Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki’s growing influence within the region. President Guelleh highlighted specific worries regarding a recent tripartite summit that occurred in Eritrea, where leaders from Somalia, Egypt, and Eritrea convened, questioning the decision not to host such a meeting in Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu. Djibouti has a history of tense relations with Eritrea, largely due to ongoing territorial disputes, and it is concerned that Somalia’s enhanced relationship with Eritrea might compromise its own standing and stability in the Horn of Africa. The shift in Somalia’s foreign policy under President Hassan Sheikh has led to increased tensions, not only between Djibouti and Somalia, but also involving Ethiopia, demonstrating a potential shift in the regional dynamics.
The Horn of Africa region has been characterized by complex political relations and territorial conflicts, notably between Djibouti and Eritrea. Historical grievances stemming from boundary discrepancies have resulted in sporadic hostilities between these two nations. Djibouti’s geographical proximity to Somalia positions it as an integral player in regional politics. Conversely, Somalia’s recent emergence in alliances, particularly with Eritrea, could be perceived as a challenge to Djibouti’s influence and interests within the region. President Hassan Sheikh’s approach to foreign policy, particularly his engagements with Eritrea, mark a significant reconfiguration in Somalia’s diplomatic relations.
In conclusion, Djibouti’s formal complaint regarding the evolving relations between Somalia and Eritrea underscores a significant shift in regional alliances that could further complicate the already fragile relationships among the Horn of Africa nations. The Djiboutian government’s apprehensions, especially following recent summits hosted outside Somalia, highlight potential concerns over national security and influence, further emphasizing the need for careful diplomatic navigation in the region.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
