Egypt to Join New African Union Peacekeeping Force in Somalia

Egypt’s Foreign Minister announced the country’s participation in a new African Union peacekeeping mission in Somalia, responding to a request from the Somali government amidst rising tensions with Ethiopia due to its recent maritime deal with Somaliland. The new force aims to counter Islamist insurgency, particularly Al-Shabaab, following the conclusion of the current AU mission by the end of the year. Egypt has emphasized its support for Somalia’s sovereignty during this strategic partnership development.

Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty announced on Monday that Egypt will participate in a new African Union (AU) peacekeeping force in Somalia. This decision comes in response to a request from the Somali government and is supported by the African Union Peace and Security Council. The announcement was made during a joint press conference with Somali Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi in Cairo. This move signifies growing ties between Egypt and Somalia at a time when tensions are escalating between Somalia and Ethiopia, particularly following Ethiopia’s recent maritime agreement with Somaliland, which has encouraged a closer alignment of Somalia with Egypt.

The new AU mission will replace the current African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) before it concludes on December 31, operating against the Islamist militant group Al-Shabaab. Minister Abdelatty reiterated Egypt’s support for Somalia’s sovereignty and its rejection of any actions harming Somalia’s unity. Notably, Turkey recently facilitated a deal aimed at resolving longstanding disputes between Somalia and Ethiopia. While Somalia has indicated that Ethiopian forces would not be part of this peacekeeping mission, it has welcomed Egypt’s inclusion. Although specifics regarding the extent of Egypt’s engagement in this mission remain unclear, both countries are evidently pursuing a strategic partnership, highlighted by a military cooperation agreement signed in August and a recent summit that notably included Eritrea but excluded Ethiopia.

The announcement of Egypt joining the AU peacekeeping force in Somalia is situated within a broader context of regional tensions, notably the complexities arising from Ethiopia’s actions that have provoked anxiety in Somalia and Cairo. Egypt’s historical rivalry with Ethiopia, particularly regarding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, underlines the geopolitical stakes in the region. The involvement of Egypt in Somalia’s peacekeeping efforts reflects an intention to strengthen bilateral relations while also addressing security concerns posed by groups like Al-Shabaab. Furthermore, the recent Turkish mediation signals a shifting diplomatic landscape in the Horn of Africa, where alliances are being reevaluated amidst regional conflicts.

In conclusion, Egypt’s commitment to participate in the new AU peacekeeping force in Somalia underscores the evolving political dynamics within the Horn of Africa. This step not only showcases Egypt’s solidarity with Somalia amidst rising tensions with Ethiopia but also highlights the strategic collaborations forming in the region. By affirming Somalia’s sovereignty and rejecting unilateral actions that threaten its stability, Egypt is positioning itself as an essential ally in addressing regional security challenges posed by militant groups.

Original Source: www.barrons.com