Renowned Scholar Yakob Calls for Critical Assessment of Egypt’s Role in Somalia.

Addis Ababa: A prominent Scholar, Yakob Arsano stressed the need for critically examining Egypt's role in Somalia and its presence that could escalate instability across the region.According to Ethiopian News Agency, Yakob who also represented Ethiopia on several international negotiations, emphasized the importance of strengthening border security and fostering regional partnerships to safeguard against potential threats. The scholar highlighted Egypt's involvement in Somalia as a potentially destabilizing force in Northeast Africa, urging those nations there to critically examine it.Yakob suggested that Egypt's presence might be driven by self-interest, especially its ambition to control the Nile River, rather than a genuine intent to support peace in Somalia. 'Egypt has not shown a reliable record in combating terrorism, even within its own borders,' Yakob observed. He argued that Egypt's influence in Somalia is possibly part of a broader strategy to weaken Ethiopia, with the Nile River at the center o f its agenda.Following the current escalation in the region, Ethiopia warned that such maneuvers of actors from outside the Horn of Africa region undermine efforts in eliminating terrorist groups that are causing chaos and mayhem on the people of the region. Particularly, Ethiopia urged Egypt as a downstream country to choose the path of negotiation and international law as well as reorient its colonial-based policy on the Abay (Nile River).Yakob expressed concern that Egypt's presence in Somalia could create lasting repercussions for the region and warned that this irresponsible act might be unfolding in Somalia. If Egypt fails to establish control, he cautioned, abandoned weapons could fall into the hands of terrorist groups, posing immediate threats to both Somalia and Ethiopia.The scholar also urged Somalia's leaders to carefully evaluate the implications of allowing Egypt, a historical rival of Ethiopia, into their territory. Allowing Egypt to gain influence could strain Ethiopian and Somalia's tie s, potentially undermining Somalia's own security and stability.Reflecting on Ethiopia's contributions to Somali peace efforts, Yakob reminded the sacrifices made by Ethiopian soldiers in Somalia. Thousands of Ethiopian troops have fought alongside Somali forces to strengthen the country's sovereignty, reinforcing Ethiopia's commitment to regional stability. He further stressed that a secure Somalia, free from disruptive external influences, is in the best interest of both countries.Turning to Ethiopia's need for sea access, Yakob highlighted the strategic importance of fostering positive relationships with neighboring nations. As the 'Water Tower of Africa,' Ethiopia possesses abundant water resources that it could share to promote economic and security alliances in exchange for sea access. 'A reliable path to the sea is essential not only for Ethiopia's trade and development but also for the region's security,' he stated.Yakob further called upon the UN Security Council, the African Union, and regiona l leaders to closely monitor Egypt's presence in Somalia. For Ethiopia, he emphasized, peaceful and cooperative engagement with neighbors remains the ideal approach for both regional development and security.