Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty declared that only border nations should access the Red Sea, during a press conference with Somali counterpart Ahmed Moallim Fiqi. Both nations committed to strengthening bilateral ties, reaffirming support for Somalia’s sovereignty, and agreed to enhance cooperation across several sectors, including plans for an Egyptian-Somali Economic Forum in January 2025.
On Monday, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty emphasized that only nations bordering the Red Sea should have access to the waterway, a declaration made during a press conference with Somali Foreign Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi in Cairo. Abdelatty reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to respecting Somalia’s sovereignty and supporting the Somali government’s authority over its territory, underscoring Egypt’s rejection of unilateral actions that threaten Somalia’s unity and safety.
The meeting served to bolster bilateral ties, highlighting shared historical connections between Egypt and Somalia. Both foreign ministers agreed to enhance their cooperation across various sectors, driven by directives from President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi and President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia. Fiqi recognized Egypt’s role in Somalia’s state-building efforts, expressing appreciation for Egypt’s recent support.
Extensive discussions ensued, focusing on political, economic, military, and educational partnerships, as well as current challenges in the Horn of Africa. Both sides committed to elevating their relationship to a strategic partnership, aiming to strengthen ties through reciprocal visits and continuous dialogue.
Minister Abdelatty announced plans for an Egyptian-Somali Economic Forum in January 2025, aimed at enhancing trade relations and fostering collaboration between private sectors. Additional education initiatives were mentioned, including increased scholarships for Somali students at Al-Azhar University.
The talks also addressed regional security concerns. The ministers spoke on the need for accelerated progress in establishing the African Union Mission for Support and Stability in Somalia (AUSSOM), urging partners to provide sustainable funding amidst ongoing instability in the region. Both Nations highlighted Egypt’s military capabilities as vital for supporting Somalia in combating terrorism and fostering institutional development. Overall, both countries reiterated their commitment to advancing their collaboration in military, health, and legislative areas while fostering mutual economic growth.
The Red Sea is a critical geopolitical region, serving as a vital conduit for international trade. Egypt’s statement about restricting access highlights its strategic interests in the area, which also ties into its broader foreign policy regarding regional stability. Somalia, on the other hand, continues to rebuild after years of conflict, looking to strengthen its sovereignty and territorial integrity. This meeting reflects Egypt’s interest in collaborating with Somalia amid prevailing regional challenges, as both nations are invested in ensuring stability in the Horn of Africa.
In summary, the recent meeting between Egyptian and Somali officials underscores a mutual commitment to enhance bilateral relations across several sectors while ensuring Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The call for a strategic partnership, alongside economic collaborations and security initiatives, reflects the historical ties and shared objectives of both nations in navigating regional challenges successfully. Such engagements are crucial for the stability and prosperity of both Egypt and Somalia, as well as the wider region.
Original Source: www.dailynewsegypt.com
