Somalia, Egypt Agree to Boost Security and Trade Ties, Plan Embassy Reopening

CAIRO, EGYPT - There is a need for Somalia and Egypt to enhance their bilateral ties in a bid to improve their security and trade relations, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and his Egyptian counterpart Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi agreed, noting the importance of the partnerships between the two parties.

The two leaders emphasized the need to improve the ties between Somalia and Egypt through the strengthening of diplomatic ties, which have existed for ages. Of immediate urgency is the improvement of security ties as Somalia fights for state-building.

Besides security, the two leaders emphasized close collaboration on matters of health, education, security, and the military sectors. Egypt is currently one of the Troops Contributing Countries in the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).

"During their bilateral talks, the two Heads of State reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties, enhancing cooperation in security, education, diplomacy, and health," Villa Somalia reported.

"At a Joint Press Conference, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud conveyed to President Alsisi the Somali people's appreciation for Egypt’s long-standing friendship and unwavering support.

"President El-Sisi also announced the imminent reopening of Egypt’s Embassy in Mogadishu, a clear testament to the deepening bonds between the two nations," the statement further said.

The two sides also reviewed progress on the August 2024 cooperation agreement, pledging to accelerate its implementation. Egypt has been supporting Somalia’s quest to defeat Al-Shabaab and its stand on territorial integrity and sovereignty following a dispute with Ethiopia.

Egypt vowed to support Somalia in defending its territorial integrity and sovereignty, with the country also training Somalia's forces, particularly the Navy. Ethiopia and Egypt have been fighting for control of the Red Sea, with Cairo maintaining that Addis Ababa does not have the right to access the sea through Somalia.

GAROWE ONLINE