Egypt's Military Aid to Somalia Aimed at Stability, Not Regional Rivalry: El-Sisi

CAIRO - Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi has made it clear that Egypt's support for Somalia is driven by the desire to help the country overcome its decades-long instability, not as a response to regional dynamics with Ethiopia.

"We don’t support Somalia because of Ethiopia. We support them because they have been in a state of instability for 30 years," El-Sisi told dignitaries at a police academy graduation ceremony on Sunday.

The statement comes on the heels of increased attention to Egypt's significant role in bolstering Somalia's stability, highlighted by the recent arrival of a cargo ship loaded with substantial military aid from the Egyptian Armed Forces.

Somalia's Defence Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur expressed his country's gratitude, affirming, "We know our interests and we will choose between our allies and our enemies. Thank you, Egypt."

The shipment represents one of the largest arms transfers Somalia has received, underscoring the growing defense relationship between Cairo and Mogadishu. Egypt previously sent military aid to Somalia, marking the second such initiative.

An August defense pact and military cooperation protocol, signed during a visit by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to Cairo, further solidified the commitment to enhance security cooperation.

Additionally, Egypt's Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, at the United Nations General Assembly, denounced actions that threatened Somalia's sovereignty, emphasizing Egypt's stance on regional stability.

President El-Sisi's remarks and actions underscore Egypt's dedication to fostering stability in Somalia, promoting a positive outlook for the country's future.

GAROWE ONLINE