Egyptian President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi has voiced strong opposition to a deal that would grant Ethiopia maritime access through the self-declared republic of Somaliland, emphasizing that such an agreement is unacceptable to all parties involved. President Sisi made these remarks during a joint appearance in Cairo alongside Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, asserting Egypt’s commitment to ensuring Somalia’s security remains intact.
“We are unwavering in our support for our brothers, and if they call upon us, we will not hesitate to act,” President Sisi declared, underscoring Egypt’s solidarity with Somalia.
However, Ethiopia’s national security affairs adviser, Redwan Hussien, provided a different perspective on Sunday. He stated that the contentious deal with Somaliland was intended for cooperation and partnership, explicitly denying any notions of annexation or the assumption of sovereignty over another state’s territory.
In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), Mr. Redwan emphasized the fraternal relationship between Ethiopia and Somalia, highlighting shared elements such as language, culture, and a common identity. “Our destiny is entwined and inseparable,” he added.
Despite Ethiopia’s position, Somalia views Somaliland as part of its territory and contends that the maritime access deal is illegal. The disagreement adds a new layer of complexity to the regional dynamics, with Egypt expressing its concerns, particularly in light of its existing issues with Ethiopia.
The longstanding tension between Egypt and Ethiopia revolves around the construction of the Renaissance Dam on the Blue Nile, a critical tributary of the River Nile. Egypt heavily relies on the Nile for nearly all its freshwater needs. The maritime access deal with Somaliland further complicates the diplomatic landscape, reflecting the intricate web of relationships and territorial disputes in the region.