By HAN News Desk
CAIRO — Egypt has reached agreements to develop and expand seaports in Eritrea and Djibouti, a move that strengthens Cairo’s strategic presence in the Horn of Africa amid growing regional tensions.
Under the deals, Egypt will participate in upgrading port infrastructure in the two Red Sea nations, expanding capacity and creating facilities capable of hosting Egyptian navy vessels, according to officials familiar with the agreements.
The projects come at a time of heightened friction between Egypt and Ethiopia over the Nile River and the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), which Cairo views as a threat to its water security. They also follow renewed tensions between Eritrea and Ethiopia over access to the Red Sea, a vital global trade route.
Analysts say the port agreements signal Egypt’s intent to bolster its maritime and security role along one of the world’s most strategic waterways, linking the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean.
By deepening ties with Eritrea and Djibouti, Egypt is positioning itself closer to key shipping lanes and regional flashpoints, while counterbalancing Ethiopia’s growing influence in the Horn of Africa.
Djibouti already hosts multiple foreign military bases, including those of the United States, China and France, underscoring its importance in global security and trade. Eritrea, which controls a long stretch of Red Sea coastline, has emerged as a critical player in regional power dynamics.
Egyptian officials say the agreements focus on economic development and maritime cooperation, but regional observers note that the projects also carry clear strategic and security implications.
The Horn of Africa has seen increasing competition among regional and global powers seeking influence over ports, trade routes and security arrangements, making Egypt’s latest moves part of a broader geopolitical contest in the region.
