The Benefits of Djibouti from Foreign Military Presence and Relations with Neighboring Countries

English Report: The Benefits of Djibouti from Foreign Military Presence and Relations with Neighboring Countries

1. Introduction

Djibouti, strategically located at the crossroads of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, has positioned itself as a critical hub for international military operations. The government of Djibouti has capitalized on its geographic position to derive significant economic and political benefits from the establishment of foreign military bases on its soil. The country hosts military forces from global powers including the United States, France, Japan, Italy, and soon China, which has transformed Djibouti into a center of geopolitical interest.

This report outlines the benefits Djibouti gains from these military presences and explores how the government manages its relations with neighboring countries to maintain regional stability.

2. Economic Benefits of Foreign Military Presence

Djibouti’s economy greatly benefits from leasing land and infrastructure to foreign militaries. The government has been able to secure substantial revenues from these agreements, which have helped to stabilize its economy and support national development efforts. Key benefits include:

• Base Leasing Fees: The country receives substantial annual fees from various nations for the use of its land and port facilities. For example, the United States alone pays approximately $63 million per year for its base at Camp Lemonnier, which is the largest American military base in Africa.
• Job Creation: The presence of foreign militaries has created thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities for Djibouti’s citizens, including jobs in logistics, construction, and maintenance services for military operations.
• Infrastructure Development: As part of their agreements, some foreign militaries have invested in local infrastructure, including roads, ports, and airports, benefiting both military operations and Djibouti’s civilian population. For instance, the United States has contributed to improvements in Djibouti’s port and airport facilities.
• Security Cooperation: Djibouti’s military and security forces benefit from training programs and security cooperation with foreign military forces, enhancing the country’s ability to maintain domestic security and regional influence.

3. Political and Strategic Benefits

Djibouti has leveraged its strategic importance to gain political influence both regionally and internationally. The presence of multiple global powers on its territory has increased its bargaining power, enabling the country to play a crucial role in regional and global diplomacy. Benefits include:

• Geopolitical Significance: Djibouti’s role as a host to multiple foreign militaries has elevated its status as a key player in the Horn of Africa, enhancing its diplomatic influence in the region.
• Regional Security: By collaborating with global powers, Djibouti has positioned itself as a central player in counterterrorism and anti-piracy efforts in the region, particularly in response to threats from groups like Al-Shabaab and piracy in the Gulf of Aden.
• Strengthened Alliances: Djibouti’s partnerships with powerful nations have led to stronger bilateral ties, giving it access to diplomatic and economic support in times of need.

4. Relations with Neighboring Countries

While Djibouti enjoys the benefits of hosting foreign military bases, it must carefully manage its relations with neighboring countries, particularly Ethiopia, Eritrea, and Somalia, to avoid regional tensions. The government of Djibouti has pursued several strategies to maintain stability and positive relations with its neighbors:

• Ethiopia: Djibouti’s relationship with Ethiopia is highly interdependent. As a landlocked country, Ethiopia relies on Djibouti for access to the sea, with more than 90% of its imports and exports passing through Djibouti’s port. The government of Djibouti has worked to maintain a positive and cooperative relationship with Ethiopia by providing reliable and efficient port services and supporting Ethiopia’s security needs through counterterrorism efforts.
• Eritrea: Relations between Djibouti and Eritrea have been tense, primarily due to border disputes. However, Djibouti has engaged in diplomatic efforts to ease tensions, often with the support of international mediators such as the African Union and the United Nations. The presence of foreign military forces has also acted as a deterrent against potential conflicts with Eritrea, contributing to the stability of the region.
• Somalia: Djibouti has maintained close ties with Somalia, contributing troops to the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) and supporting efforts to stabilize the country. Djibouti’s foreign military presence also helps to secure the region from Somali-based threats, such as piracy and terrorist activities, which further strengthens its relationship with Somalia.

5. Challenges and Considerations

While Djibouti benefits economically and strategically from the presence of foreign military bases, it faces challenges in balancing the interests of multiple global powers. Key considerations include:

• Over-reliance on Foreign Powers: Djibouti’s economic and security dependence on foreign military presence could pose risks if global powers decide to reduce or withdraw their forces. The government must ensure that it diversifies its economy to mitigate such risks.
• Regional Diplomacy: Djibouti must carefully manage its relationships with neighboring countries, especially as it becomes more integrated into global military strategies. Balancing its alliances with major powers while maintaining good relations with its neighbors requires delicate diplomacy.
• Internal Security: The influx of foreign military personnel and resources also requires Djibouti to maintain internal security and control over its territories to avoid any negative social or political consequences.

6. Conclusion

The Djibouti government has effectively capitalized on its geographic position to secure economic, political, and security benefits through its agreements with foreign military powers. However, it must navigate complex regional relationships, particularly with Ethiopia, Eritrea, and Somalia, to maintain peace and stability in the Horn of Africa. Moving forward, Djibouti should focus on leveraging its international partnerships while continuing to prioritize regional diplomacy and economic diversification.

By maintaining this delicate balance, Djibouti can continue to benefit from its unique geopolitical position while contributing to regional security and economic growth.

7. Recommendations

1. Diversification of Economy: Djibouti should seek to diversify its economy beyond military revenue, investing in sectors such as logistics, tourism, and trade to reduce reliance on foreign military bases.
2. Enhancement of Regional Diplomacy: The government should enhance diplomatic efforts with neighboring countries to foster peace and security, particularly through regional organizations such as the African Union and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD).
3. Long-term Infrastructure Investments: Djibouti should ensure that investments made in infrastructure by foreign powers are sustainable and serve long-term national interests, benefiting both military and civilian sectors.