Eritrea accuses UAE of pursuing “port imperialism” in Africa

Eritrean Foreign Minister Osman Saleh has accused the United Arab Emirates of pursuing “port imperialism” across Africa, suggesting that Abu Dhabi’s expanding network of commercial ports and strategic facilities serves motives beyond simple economic interests.

The tension centers on the strategic importance of the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden, and the Horn of Africa, particularly as maritime security becomes more volatile. Emirati port operators, including DP World and AD Ports Group, maintain significant investments and management roles in several African nations, such as Egypt, Tanzania, and Somalia.

In Somalia, the situation has led to significant political friction. The Somali federal government recently terminated all agreements with the UAE, including security and defense cooperation and arrangements involving the ports of Berbera, Bosaso, and Kismayo, accusing the UAE of undermining national sovereignty. However, regional administrations such as Puntland, Jubaland, and the breakaway region of Somaliland have rejected the federal government’s decision, stating they will continue their cooperation with the UAE. DP World has indicated that operations at the port of Berbera would not be affected by the federal government’s move.