Egypt to Support Somalia's military capabilities

CAIRO, Somalia - The government of Egypt reiterates its commitment to supporting the federal government of Somalia in the stabilization mission, noting that modernization of the military is the key priority at the moment due to the Al-Shabab resurgence in the country.

Badr Abdelatty, the Egyptian Foreign Affairs minister, said supporting key institutions in the country including the military would enable thr country to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity which are under threat from neighbouring countries.

Investment in combating terrorism and enforcement of the country's sovereignty, he said, are dear to Egypt, which is a member of the Arab League of Nations just like Somalia.

This, he added, shall be carried out within Egypt's interest in assuming its responsibilities in contributing to maintaining regional and international peace and security in accordance with the principles of the United Nations Charter, the Constitutive Act of the African Union, and the Charter of the League of Arab States.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs pointed out that, based on this, Egypt is providing support to Somalia in the field of building security and military capabilities, in light of Egypt's long experience and leadership in the field of combating terrorism, achieving security, and enforcing the law.

The meeting also discussed the ongoing arrangements for the new African Union mission to Somalia, taking into account the importance of enhancing stability in Somalia, which is reflected in securing international trade movement in the Bab al-Mandab Strait and combating terrorism and cross-border organized crime.

Somalia is currently combating Al-Shabaab militants who control parts of the center and the southern regions, but have lost large swathes within the last two years after the government declared total war on the fight against the militants.

The government of Egypt signed a military/defense pact with Somalia, which enables it to train and equip Somalia’s troops besides jointly manning the 3,333 kilometers of coastline which is under threat from near and far nations.

GAROWE ONLINE