Eritrea Accuses UAE of ‘Port Colonialism’ as Abu Dhabi Expands Influence Across Africa
ASMARA, Eritrea (Baraarugtv.com)-Eritrea has accused the United Arab Emirates of pursuing what it described as “port colonialism” across Africa, questioning Abu Dhabi’s expanding investments and strategic presence at key ports along the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden and East Africa.
Foreign Minister Osman Saleh, speaking to ‘Middle East Eye’, said the UAE’s growing port footprint could not be explained by commercial interests alone.
“The UAE has port facilities in many places in the region, and African countries should ask why,” Saleh said.
UAE-linked DP World and AD Ports Group have invested in or managed facilities across Africa, including in Egypt, Tanzania and Somalia. DP World operates Berbera port in Somaliland and has a role at Bosaso port in Somalia’s Puntland region.
Eritrea said it rejected efforts by DP World to establish a presence in the country and opposed a reported UAE request for a military base in the Dahlak Islands.
The UAE previously operated a military facility at Assab, Eritrea, supporting Saudi-led operations in Yemen.
Asmara has also criticised UAE ties with Ethiopia and Israel, warning that growing foreign involvement in the Horn of Africa could increase geopolitical tensions.
