The leaders of Egypt, Eritrea, Somalia, and Sudan gathered on Sunday in New Alamein, Egypt, to address the escalating tensions in Ethiopia and their impact on regional relations. This meeting took place amid renewed clashes in Ethiopia, exacerbating existing disputes over Nile water rights, the Red Sea, and territorial sovereignty in the Horn of Africa.
Common Stances Against Ethiopia
Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, the President of Egypt, hosted the meeting, which included Isaias Afwerki, the President of Eritrea, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, the President of Somalia, and Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the Chief of Staff of the Sudanese Army. The leaders of the four countries emphasized their opposition to any unilateral actions that would harm existing uses of Nile water and reiterated their commitment to international law and previous consultations regarding transboundary rivers. These positions specifically referred to Ethiopia and the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam project.
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Support for Sudan's Unity
The leaders also expressed support for the government and army of Sudan, emphasizing “unity, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national institutions of the Republic of Sudan.” They particularly opposed the establishment of any parallel institutions in the country. The Sudanese army, led by al-Burhan, continues to fight against rapidly established paramilitary forces in a conflict that began in April 2023. Both sides have accused each other of supporting rival groups in this conflict.
This meeting reflects the determination of regional countries to cooperate and show solidarity in the face of common challenges. The leaders of these countries hope to find solutions to existing crises through engagement and dialogue, contributing to strengthening stability in the region.
Ultimately, this meeting is regarded as an important diplomatic action aimed at enhancing security and economic cooperation among the countries of the Horn of Africa and may help reduce tensions and create space for constructive negotiations among the parties involved in regional crises.
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