Cairo, Egypt – Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi affirmed that Egypt is proceeding with the deployment of its forces as part of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM),
in fulfillment of its commitment to supporting security, stability, and combating terrorism in Somalia.
This came during Sisi’s meeting on Sunday in Cairo with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud,
where the two presidents held extensive talks addressing developments in Somalia, Red Sea security,
ways to counter attempts at partition, and strengthening bilateral cooperation between the two countries.
Presidential Spokesman Ambassador Mohamed El-Shenawy explained
that President Sisi reiterated Egypt’s unwavering support for Somalia’s unity, security,
and territorial integrity, emphasizing the rejection of any measures that would infringe upon Somalia’s sovereignty or stability.
He also warned against any steps that could compromise the security
and sovereignty of states, considering them a violation of the UN Charter and international law.
Activating the strategic partnership
The spokesperson noted that the welcoming ceremony included the playing of the national anthems and a review of the guard of honor,
followed by a bilateral meeting between the two presidents.
This was followed by expanded talks with the participation of delegations from both countries,
and concluded with a luncheon hosted by the Egyptian president in honor of his Somali counterpart and the accompanying delegation.
During the talks, Sisi emphasized the importance of activating the strategic partnership declaration signed
between the two countries in January 2025.
The two sides discussed opportunities for cooperation in the fields of trade, development, education, and capacity building.
Egypt also expressed its readiness to provide support through the programs of the Egyptian Agency
of Partnership for Development, a gesture which was appreciated by the Somali president.
Enhancing maritime navigation security
The talks also addressed security and military cooperation, particularly in the field of counterterrorism.
President Sisi affirmed Egypt’s readiness to share its expertise and capabilities in this area,
contributing to the support of Somali national institutions and the enhancement of stability.
Regarding regional developments, both sides agreed on the necessity of resolving conflicts peacefully,
preserving national state institutions, and strengthening maritime security.
They emphasized that the responsibility for securing the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden rests with the littoral states.
For his part, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud expressed his pleasure at visiting Egypt,
praising the fraternal relations between the two countries and Cairo’s role in supporting Somalia’s unity and stability,
as well as its efforts to promote security in the Horn of Africa and the Middle East.
Following the talks, the two presidents held a joint press conference, during which President Sisi stressed
that Egypt will remain a sincere and supportive partner of Somalia
and will continue its efforts to enhance security and stability in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea region.
